A federal judge in Texas has issued a permanent injunction against the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and the US Justice Department from enforcing the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA) in the state and its agencies. The judge ruled that the U.S. House of Representatives did not have a quorum when passing the legislation, rendering the vote invalid. Notably, the ruling applies specifically to the state of Texas and those employed by state agencies. The injunction does not extend to any private employers or other governmental employers.
The PWFA, which took effect in June 2023, requires employers with 15 or more employees to provide reasonable accommodations for pregnant employees and those with pregnancy-related conditions.
Next Steps
Private employers in Texas should be mindful of the narrow scope of this injunction and continue to comply with the requirements of the PWFA.
Employers should also consult with legal counsel if they need specific guidance on complying with the PWFA.
