Connecticut has enacted legislation (House Bill 5158) that expands the state's requirements for providing lactation breaks to employees. House Bill 5158 takes effect on October 1, 2021.
Background:
Under existing state law, employees are entitled to express breast milk or breastfeed at the workplace during their meal or break period. An employer must make reasonable efforts to provide a room or other location, in close proximity to the work area, other than a toilet stall, where the employee can express her milk in private.
House Bill 5158:
Unless it would impose an undue hardship on the employer, House Bill 5158 requires that the room or other location also:
- Be free from intrusion and shielded from the public while the employee expresses breast milk;
- Include or be situated near a refrigerator or employee-provided portable cold storage device in which the employee can store her breast milk; and
- Have access to an electrical outlet.
Undue hardship is defined as any action that requires significant difficulty or expense when considered in relation to factors such as the size of the business, its financial resources, and the nature and structure of its operation.
Compliance Recommendations:
Connecticut employers should ensure compliance with House Bill 5158 by October 1, 2021. Please contact your dedicated service professional with any questions.