We want to bring to your attention to a significant legal trend that could impact your compliance strategies. Recent class action lawsuits filed against Starbucks in California, and against McDonalds and Amazon in other states, underscore the crucial importance of adhering to state laws regarding lactation accommodations for breastfeeding/nursing employees who need to pump at work.
Case Overview: In the case of Luz Iraheta v. Starbucks Corp., an employee alleges that the company’s failure to provide adequate lactation spaces and sufficient pumping breaks led to significant distress and ultimately forced her to stop breastfeeding. Filed in the Superior Court of the State of California, this lawsuit highlights the “systemic failure” to meet the requirements mandated by California law, which includes, but is not limited to, providing:
• A private space shielded from view and free from intrusion for pumping breast milk;
• Sufficient/flexible break times to allow employees to express milk; and,
• Necessary amenities within the lactation space, such as an electrical outlet and a sink.
Key Allegations Against Starbucks:
• Inadequate lactation accommodations, including the absence of a private and sanitary location for milk expression.
• A workplace environment that did not support the privacy and needs of lactating employees.
• Insufficient break time, leading to missed pumping sessions.
Implications for Your Business: This lawsuit serves as a critical reminder of the legal and reputational risks associated with non-compliance with lesser known regulations. To safeguard your company against similar claims:
• Review Your Lactation Policies: Ensure your policies fully comply with California’s requirements for lactation accommodations.
• Educate Your Managers: Training for supervisors and managers on the importance of adhering to these policies is crucial.
• Audit Your Facilities: Regularly check that all lactation spaces are adequately equipped and maintained.
How We Can Help: Our experienced employment law team can help you review and update your lactation accommodation policies and practices. Ensuring compliance not only supports your employees but also protects your business from potential litigation.
Contact Us:
Michael Adreani: 📩 mba@rpnalaw.com
Trevor R. Witt: 📩 trw@rpnalaw.com
Muhammed T. Hussain: 📩 mth@rpnalaw.com
Laura H. Park: 📩 lhp@rpnalaw.com
📞 818-992-9999
