Maternity Leave in Kentucky
Complete guide to maternity leave requirements, employee rights, and employer obligations in Kentucky.
Kentucky Maternity Leave Requirements
No State Paid Family Leave
Kentucky does not have a state paid family leave program. No state family leave program. Federal FMLA applies.
Federal Requirements
FMLA provides 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave for eligible employees at covered employers (50+ employees). Pregnancy Discrimination Act prohibits discrimination based on pregnancy.
About Maternity Leave
Maternity leave is time off from work for mothers before and after the birth of a child. In the United States, there is no federal requirement for paid maternity leave, but FMLA provides up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave for eligible employees. Many states have enacted paid family leave programs that provide wage replacement during maternity leave.
Typical Duration
6-12 weeks, though some employers offer up to 16-20 weeks
Paid vs Unpaid
Federally unpaid (FMLA). Paid in states with paid family leave programs. Many employers offer paid maternity leave as a benefit.
Employee Rights
- ✓Job protection during FMLA leave
- ✓Continuation of health benefits
- ✓Return to same or equivalent position
- ✓Protection from discrimination or retaliation
- ✓Right to pump breast milk at work (PUMP Act)
Employer Obligations
- •Provide FMLA leave if employer is covered
- •Maintain health insurance during leave
- •Restore employee to same or equivalent position
- •Not discriminate based on pregnancy (Pregnancy Discrimination Act)
- •Provide reasonable accommodations for pregnancy-related conditions
Kentucky Key Compliance Points
- !Follow federal FMLA requirements
- !Protect employees on jury duty
- !Allow reasonable time to vote (up to 4 hours)
Common Questions
How long is maternity leave in the US?
There is no federal paid maternity leave. FMLA provides 12 weeks unpaid leave for eligible employees. State programs and employer policies vary widely, typically ranging from 6-16 weeks.
Is maternity leave paid?
Federal FMLA leave is unpaid. However, 13+ states have paid family leave programs, and many employers offer paid maternity leave as a benefit. Short-term disability insurance may also provide income during medical recovery.
Can I be fired while on maternity leave?
If you qualify for FMLA, your job is protected during leave. You cannot be fired for taking FMLA leave or for being pregnant. However, if layoffs or performance issues unrelated to pregnancy occur, termination may be possible.
When should I tell my employer I'm pregnant?
There is no legal requirement for when to disclose pregnancy. Many employees wait until after the first trimester. Give enough notice (typically 30 days for FMLA) for your employer to plan coverage.
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