Nanny Maternity Rights

In the U.S., maternity benefits for nannies depend on the employer.

Nannies in the United States are limited in their maternity rights. Because the employer is in charge of what benefits to offer, it is important to collaborate together to make sure the interests of both sides are met.

Maternity Leave

Currently no laws state that employers have to give their nannies maternity leave. Australia and the United States are the only two industrialized nations that do not have a federally mandated paid maternity leave policy. The decision is up to the employer's discretion. Until there is legislation, you may want to discuss this point further with your employer.

Nannies and FMLA

In 1993, the Family and Medical Leave, or FMLA, entitled most workers up to 12 weeks of job-protected medical leave that can be taken after a birth or an adoption. Paid leave is unusual in the United States, and it is up to the nanny's employer what or if these benefits may be allowed.

State Laws

What benefits nannies are able to get will depend on what state they live in. In 2010, New York looked to pass a law that would guarantee a number of rights to nannies, including paid vacation days and required time off, which may be used toward maternity leave.

References

• Baby Center: Maternity Leave: The Basics

Resources

• Nursery World: What to Expect