January 3, 2025 | JacobiJournal.com — Violating Pregnancy Leave Laws: Sanford Health, a leading medical clinic network, will pay $220,000 in back wages and damages after the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry (DLI) found the company violated state laws related to pregnancy accommodations and parental leave. This settlement follows an investigation into Sanford’s practices during the 2023-2024 period.
Sanford’s Violations and the Settlement Agreement
On November 18, 2024, Sanford Health signed a consent order with DLI. The order requires Sanford to follow Minnesota’s Women’s Economic Security Act (WESA) at all its facilities. The investigation revealed that Sanford reduced a pregnant employee’s weekly hours from 40 to 32 after she requested a reasonable accommodation. Additionally, Sanford terminated the employee after she requested her right to take 12 weeks of parental leave.
As part of the agreement, Sanford will pay back wages, compensatory damages, and liquidated damages to the employee. Furthermore, the company faces a $40,000 civil penalty for willfully violating the law. An additional $160,000 in penalties will remain suspended as long as Sanford complies fully with the consent order. Violating Pregnancy Leave Laws
Commitment to Compliance and Future Action
This agreement underscores Sanford Health’s responsibility to comply with state laws on pregnancy accommodations and parental leave. DLI’s findings highlight the need to protect workers’ rights and ensure fair treatment. Sanford Health now has a set period to make necessary changes and prevent future violations.
For more details on the consent order, visit the official Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry.
FAQs: Violating Pregnancy Leave Laws
What does violating pregnancy leave laws mean?
It refers to employers denying or restricting legally protected rights for pregnancy accommodations or parental leave.
Why was Sanford Health fined for violating pregnancy leave laws?
Sanford reduced hours for a pregnant worker and later terminated her after she requested her right to parental leave.
What penalties apply for violating pregnancy leave laws in Minnesota?
Penalties can include back wages, damages, and civil fines, as shown in Sanford Health’s $220K settlement.
How can companies avoid violating pregnancy leave laws?
By ensuring compliance with state and federal protections, updating HR policies, and training managers to respect workers’ rights.
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