Legal Question in Business Law in Iowa

Working Mom

I have a 3 month old child. When I return to work I would like to continue breastfeeding. However, when I spoke to my boss, they are refusing to give me the time to pump during my shift. I even offered to stay longer hours, or combine breaks. They are also refusing to provide a comfortable, private place for me to pump. Can my employer legally do this, or are they obligated to accomadate my needs?


Asked on 12/08/05, 8:21 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Robert Luedeman solo practitioner

Re: Working Mom

This is an interesting question. The only law on the subject is Iowa Code 135.30 which states that women may breastfeed their children in any public place. However that doesn't seem to fit the bill for you, as workplaces are not generally public property unless the government is your employer.

The best resource for you will be found in the following link from LaLeche League. It is most informative and useful. If the employer is making accomodations for other folks such as smoke breaks and so on, an unfair treatment argument can be made but it's a tough uphill battle to litigate such a claim.

http://www.lalecheleague.org/Law/LawEmployment.html

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Answered on 12/09/05, 12:50 pm


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