“The U.S. Senate failure on Thursday to pass the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act by unanimous consent is a painful disappointment, but a temporary one. This must not stand. This bill, which has overwhelming bipartisan support among lawmakers and voters, can still – and must – become law this year.

“No one should have to choose between a paycheck and a healthy pregnancy. But in our nation today, too many people do. The Pregnant Workers Fairness Act will help change that by ensuring employers provide pregnant workers with reasonable accommodations that support healthy pregnancies, such as extra bathroom breaks, access to stools, and being allowed to carry water bottles. It will especially help pregnant workers of color, who often are denied these simple accommodations.

“Enactment of the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act will prevent pregnant women from being pushed out of the labor force. It will support women’s health and economic security. And it will help dismantle the shameful racism that contributes to this country’s devastating Black maternal health crisis. The U.S. House of Representatives passed this legislation last year by a wide margin and with bipartisan support. America’s moms are counting on the U.S. Senate to pass it too, before Congress adjourns later this month.”