New York Becomes First State to Offer Paid Prenatal Leave

In a country where only 13 states offer paid parental leave, the idea of receiving paid leave for prenatal medical appointments and preparing for a baby’s arrival can seem like a distant dream. However, in New York, that dream has become a reality.

As of January 1, 2025, all employees working for private companies in New York are entitled to a minimum of 20 hours of prenatal paid leave. The New York State Department of Labor estimates that about 130,000 pregnant women per year will be eligible for this benefit, with about 65,800 of those being hourly workers.

This groundbreaking legislation—the first of its kind in the nation—adds paid prenatal leave benefits to New York’s existing suite of protections, including Paid Family Leave, employer-provided leave and sick leave. From prenatal appointments and fertility treatments to end-of-pregnancy care, advocates of the new law believe the protected 20 hours will expand access to high-quality prenatal care and help reduce maternal and infant mortality rates.

“In New York, we’re proud that we have the most expansive paid family leave program in the country. You get paid to stay home those first four months…But that only supports the families after the baby is born and for the first few months, right,” New York Governer Kathy Hochul noted in a speech announcing the legislation. “I speak from experience here, having had a couple of babies. You often need help during the pregnancy too.“

Numerous studies have highlighted the significant life-saving benefits of enhanced access to prenatal care, particularly for Black women. Early detection of conditions such as gestational diabetes and preeclampsia during pregnancy can prevent complications and reduce maternal mortality rates. Yet, for many who struggle to take unpaid time off work, these essential visits are often delayed or skipped altogether.

Despite the progress, critics have raised concerns about the policy’s limitations. Government employees, including state and federal workers and teachers, are exempt from the benefit. Additionally, the 20-hour provision falls short of the originally proposed 40 hours, with some pointing to policies in other countries that offer far more comprehensive support for expectant parents.

While New York’s paid prenatal leave policy may fall short of providing everything expectant parents need, it represents meaningful progress toward creating a more supportive environment for families during pregnancy—a precedent that will hopefully inspire other states to follow suit.