MS HB1196

Prohibits employers from refusing reasonable accommodations for pregnancy, childbirth, or related conditions, including breast milk expression, unless accommodation would impose undue hardship on the business.

Prevents employers from taking adverse employment actions against employees who request or use accommodations, including denying employment opportunities or requiring leave when other accommodations are available.

Requires employers to provide written notice to new employees at hire, existing employees within 120 days of July 1, 2020, and within 10 days of pregnancy notification, posted conspicuously in the workplace.

Allows employees to file lawsuits in circuit court for violations, with remedies including attorney's fees, back pay, liquidated damages, and 100% of unpaid wages; willful violations result in 300% of remedies.

Defines reasonable accommodations to include frequent breaks, light duty, job restructuring, modified schedules, and equipment modification, with employer burden to prove undue hardship based on cost, financial resources, business size, and operational impact.