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Workplace Rights and Pregnancy Protection for Single Mothers in Wyoming

Workplace Rights & Pregnancy Protection for Single Mothers in Wyoming

Last updated: September 2025

If you’re pregnant or postpartum and working (or job-hunting) in Wyoming, you have strong legal rights and practical ways to keep income, benefits, and time to heal. Use the steps, checklists, and phone numbers in this guide, and save it to your phone. For quick help on discrimination or unsafe conditions, lean on Wyoming Department of Workforce Services Labor Standards, U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) Denver Field Office, and U.S. Department of Labor Wage & Hour Division (WHD) Denver Office. For benefits while you’re expecting or caring for a newborn, use Wyoming Medicaid (pregnancy coverage), WIC Wyoming, and SNAP at Wyoming Department of Family Services (DFS). (dws.wyo.gov)


If You Only Do 3 Things — Emergency Actions to Take

Quick Help Box — Numbers and Links to Keep Handy

Your Core Rights in Wyoming — Fast Overview

Use this chart to see what protects you, who enforces it, and what to do next. For full details, keep reading and use the linked sources in each row like EEOC PWFA, WHD PUMP, and Wyoming Fair Employment Practices Act.

Right What it guarantees Who it covers Who enforces What to do first
Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA) Reasonable accommodations for pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions unless undue hardship Most employers with 15+ workers EEOC Ask for the accommodation; document; if refused, contact EEOC. (eeoc.gov)
Pregnancy Discrimination (Title VII + WY law) No discrimination based on pregnancy, childbirth, lactation, or related conditions 15+ (Title VII); most WY employers (state law) EEOC and WY Labor Standards (FEPA) File with WY Labor Standards (6-month state deadline) or EEOC (180–300 days). (law.justia.com)
FMLA (job-protected leave) Up to 12 weeks unpaid, job-protected leave for prenatal care, incapacity due to pregnancy, birth/bonding Eligible employees at covered employers U.S. DOL WHD Give notice to HR; submit medical cert if requested; escalate to WHD if denied. (dol.gov)
PUMP Act (pumping milk) Reasonable break time and private space (not a bathroom) for 1 year after birth Most employees, including salaried U.S. DOL WHD Tell manager/HR; if no space or retaliation, call WHD. (dol.gov)
Safety & retaliation (OSHA) Protections if you report unsafe work, including hazards to pregnancy All covered employees Wyoming OSHA File safety complaint or retaliation complaint within 30 days. (dws.wyo.gov)

According to the EEOC’s final rule, the PWFA became effective June 27, 2023, and its final regulation took effect June 18, 2024, with practical examples like extra breaks, water, seating, and temporary lifting limits. Courts have limited parts of the rule about abortion in some lawsuits, but core pregnancy accommodations remain nationwide—always ask and document. Track developments with EEOC PWFA update, and if your request involves abortion care, call EEOC and Legal Aid to confirm current scope. (eeoc.gov)

How To Ask For a Pregnancy Accommodation Today (Simple Script + Steps)

Start with the fastest path: a clear request in writing (email or text), then a short talk. Use your company’s forms if they have them, but you don’t need magic words. You can cite PWFA, refer to Wyoming Fair Employment Program, and mention ADA pregnancy-related impairments. (eeoc.gov)

  • Copy/paste request: “I have a limitation related to pregnancy and need a change at work. Specifically, I need [shorter shifts/extra bathroom breaks/a stool/no lifting over 20 lbs/time off for prenatal care]. Please let me know any forms you need so we can find a reasonable accommodation.” Then propose two options and a start date. See examples in EEOC PWFA guidance and EEOC summary of final rule. (eeoc.gov)
  • Bring a brief doctor note only if needed: For obvious needs like drinking water, bathroom breaks, or a larger uniform, employers shouldn’t demand documentation; EEOC says requests for proof must be reasonable. If asked, have a one‑liner note confirming the restriction and expected duration. Use EEOC PWFA “documentation” rules. (eeoc.gov)
  • If they delay or deny: Ask for a temporary accommodation while they review. Keep emails and photos. If needed, call EEOC Denver or WY Labor Standards to file a charge (EEOC 180–300 days; WY FEPA 6 months). File sooner rather than later. See EEOC time limit rules. (eeoc.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact Legal Aid of Wyoming, call 1-877-432-9955 for intake, and consider co‑filing with EEOC, WY Labor Standards, and U.S. DOL WHD. Ask for help documenting retaliation, which is illegal. (lawyoming.org)

Pumping Milk at Work — Exactly What Your Employer Must Do

The PUMP Act requires reasonable break time and a private space that’s not a bathroom for one year after birth, for every time you need to pump. The space must be shielded from view, free from intrusion, and functional. Pay rules: if you’re not fully relieved of duty during pump breaks, you must be paid. Read DOL Fact Sheet #73, the space details in Fact Sheet #73A (March 2025), and FAQs at Pump at Work. For Wyoming worksites, WHD’s Denver office assists. (dol.gov)

If your manager says “we don’t have a room,” suggest a conference room with a lock, a storage area with a curtain, or a pop‑up privacy tent. Teleworkers must be free from observation by webcams during pumping. If you’re denied space or punished, call WHD at 1‑866‑4US‑WAGE and reference the PUMP Act. See DOL guidance for examples of compliant setups. (beta.dol.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Document dates/times you were refused breaks, take photos of the offered space, and file with WHD Denver. If you also face harassment or discipline, add a charge with EEOC. (dol.gov)

FMLA and Other Time‑Off Options During Pregnancy and Postpartum

Under the FMLA, eligible employees at covered employers get up to 12 workweeks of unpaid, job‑protected leave for prenatal care, incapacity due to pregnancy, and birth/bonding. You must have 12 months of service, 1,250 hours in the last 12 months, and work at a location with 50+ employees within 75 miles. Download DOL Fact Sheet #28 (March 2025), review How the 12‑month FMLA period works, and see counting leave details. (dol.gov)

Use FMLA together with PWFA accommodations: you don’t have to take leave if another reasonable fix lets you keep working. Wyoming has no state‑mandated paid family leave, so ask HR about sick/PTO banks, short‑term disability insurance, and donated leave pools. If your FMLA is denied, call WHD and ask for an FMLA investigation. (dol.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Request written reasons for denial and appeal internally, then contact WHD Denver and Legal Aid of Wyoming for review of eligibility and options. (dol.gov)

Wyoming Law Against Pregnancy Discrimination

Wyoming’s Fair Employment Practices Act bans discrimination “because of … pregnancy” in hiring, pay, and all terms of employment. You can file with the state within six months, and with the EEOC within 180–300 days (Wyoming is a “deferral” state). Start at WY Labor Standards Fair Employment, review the complaint rules, and see the statute at Wyo. Stat. § 27‑9‑105. For federal deadlines, use EEOC time limits. (dws.wyo.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: If state and federal deadlines are near, file with the EEOC Public Portal the same day you call WY Labor Standards to preserve both tracks. If safety is an issue, contact Wyoming OSHA immediately. (eeoc.gov)

Table — Which Law Helps With What?

Situation Best first step Law/agency
Morning sickness makes you late Request later start time or intermittent leave PWFA (EEOC) / FMLA (WHD) (eeoc.gov)
Heavy lifting required Ask for duty modification or temporary reassignment PWFA (EEOC) (eeoc.gov)
Need to pump 3–4 times/shift Ask for private space and flexible breaks PUMP Act (WHD) (dol.gov)
Manager says “pregnant women can’t do this job” Document and file discrimination complaint WY FEPA (Labor Standards) / Title VII (EEOC) (dws.wyo.gov)
Unsafe chemical exposure File safety complaint and ask for protective accommodation Wyoming OSHA / PWFA (EEOC) (dws.wyo.gov)

How to Stop Utility Shutoff in Wyoming Today

Act fast the day you get a disconnect notice. Call your utility’s credit team and say you’re applying for LIEAP and ask for a short hold or payment plan. Then apply at Wyoming LIEAP and, if needed, file a quick complaint with the PSC Complaint line. Keep Rocky Mountain Power (24/7) and Black Hills Energy contacts handy. (dfs.wyo.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask a local nonprofit for a one‑time grant, such as Energy Share of Wyoming (via Black Hills Cares), or call Wyoming 2‑1‑1 for nearby church funds. (blackhillsenergy.com)

Money and Food While You’re Pregnant in Wyoming

Pregnancy Medicaid in Wyoming covers you during pregnancy and 12 months postpartum if your household income is at or below 154% of the federal poverty level, with faster temporary coverage through Presumptive Eligibility. Start at Wyoming Medicaid Programs & Eligibility, check the Medicaid Income Requirements (table), and apply at the Wyoming Department of Health Customer Service Center. (health.wyo.gov)

WIC gives healthy foods, breastfeeding support, and nutrition coaching to pregnant and postpartum parents and kids under five. Call 1‑888‑996‑9378 or apply at How to Apply for WIC. Income guidelines through June 30, 2025 are posted at WIC Income Guidelines, and USDA’s page lists state contacts at Wyoming WIC (FNS). (health.wyo.gov)

SNAP can help with groceries; interviews can be scheduled by phone (1‑307‑777‑8550). See SNAP Do I Qualify?, apply via How to Apply, and use DFS’s current Table I: SNAP Income Limits (Oct 2025–Sept 2026). For immediate food, call Food Bank of Wyoming at 1‑307‑265‑2172. (dfs.wyo.gov)

TANF cash aid (POWER) can help if income is very low. A family of three with no income could receive about $781/month (posted by DFS; amounts can change). See POWER benefit amounts and POWER income/resource rules. Check current limits in POWER income guidelines (FY 2025–2026). (dfs.wyo.gov)

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call your county DFS office (find it via DFS locations) and the DFS Ombudsman at 1‑307‑777‑6597 for stuck cases. For health coverage appeals, email the WDH Customer Service Center and ask about fair hearings. Dial Wyoming 2‑1‑1 for local churches and civic funds. (health.wyo.gov)

Table — Key Benefit Numbers (as of September 2025 — verify before applying)

Program Typical threshold/benefit snapshot Where to verify
Medicaid (Pregnant Women) Up to 154% FPL; presumptive eligibility available; 12‑month postpartum coverage Medicaid Programs & Eligibility / Income Requirements (health.wyo.gov)
SNAP Income guidelines, allotments, and deductions posted for Oct 2025–Sept 2026 DFS SNAP Table I (dfs.wyo.gov)
WIC Income up to 185% FPL; see July 1, 2024–June 30, 2025 table WIC Income Guidelines (health.wyo.gov)
TANF (POWER) Example: $781/mo for a family of three with no income (may vary) POWER Amounts / POWER Income Rules (dfs.wyo.gov)
LIEAP Seasonal heating help; Crisis help for shutoff/furnace; vendor paid directly LIEAP Program (dfs.wyo.gov)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Reality Check — What Often Delays or Derails Cases

  • Reality Check: PWFA is strong, but parts of the EEOC rule about abortion are being litigated. Core pregnancy accommodations still apply. If your request involves abortion care, get advice from EEOC and Legal Aid of Wyoming. Track recent rulings in reliable news sources. (reuters.com)
  • Reality Check: Benefits processing takes time. DFS posts phone interview options and accepts verifications by email. Use SNAP interview line, and ask about priority handling if you’re pregnant with zero income. Call Wyoming 2‑1‑1 for local food or gas cards while you wait. (dfs.wyo.gov)
  • Reality Check: Wyoming has one of the leanest safety nets. Pair state aid with nonprofits like Food Bank of Wyoming, United Way/2‑1‑1, and job‑training through Climb Wyoming. (wyomingfoodbank.org)

Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Need First call or link
Pregnancy accommodation denied EEOC Denver / WY Labor Standards (eeoc.gov)
Pumping space issue WHD Fact Sheet #73 / 1‑866‑4US‑WAGE (dol.gov)
Medicaid while pregnant Medicaid Pregnant Women / Apply (health.wyo.gov)
Shutoff notice LIEAP / PSC complaint (dfs.wyo.gov)
Legal help Legal Aid of Wyoming / 1‑877‑432‑9955 (lawyoming.org)

Application Checklist (screenshot‑friendly)

If Your Application Gets Denied

County‑By‑County Variations You’ll Notice

What to do if this doesn’t work: Call Wyoming 2‑1‑1 and ask for regional housing, food, and rental deposit charities; if evicted or about to be, ask Legal Aid of Wyoming for eviction defense. (wycoc.org)

Table — Filing Deadlines & Where to File (Save This)

Issue State deadline Federal deadline Where to file
Pregnancy discrimination/harassment 6 months (WY FEPA) 180–300 days (EEOC) WY Labor Standards (Fair Employment) / EEOC Public Portal (dws.wyo.gov)
Failure to accommodate pregnancy (PWFA) n/a 180–300 days (EEOC) EEOC Denver (eeoc.gov)
Pumping space/breaks (PUMP Act) n/a WHD complaint anytime (FLSA) WHD Denver Office (dol.gov)
FMLA denial/retaliation n/a WHD complaint; lawsuit deadlines vary WHD FMLA (dol.gov)

Local Organizations, Charities, Churches, and Support Groups

What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask Wyoming 2‑1‑1 for a warm handoff to a navigator; request language interpretation at every agency (they provide it free). (wycoc.org)

Diverse Communities — Tailored Tips and Resources

What to do if this doesn’t work: Contact Legal Aid of Wyoming 1‑877‑432‑9955 and your local DV/SA advocates via WCADVSA for safety planning, housing, and court accompaniment. (lawyoming.org)

Resources by Region (bookmark the ones near you)

Table — Leave & Scheduling Options (Mix and Match)

Goal Option Notes
Keep working with limits PWFA accommodation (reduced lifting, breaks, hydration, seating) Don’t accept unpaid leave if a reasonable accommodation exists. EEOC PWFA (eeoc.gov)
Time for prenatal care Intermittent FMLA or schedule adjustments under PWFA Provide simple documentation if requested. FMLA (dol.gov)
Heal after birth FMLA (12 weeks unpaid) plus employer PTO Ask HR how paid leave can run concurrent. FMLA basics (dol.gov)
Feed your baby PUMP Act breaks and private space Paid if you’re not fully relieved from duty. Fact Sheet #73 (dol.gov)

FAQs (Wyoming‑Specific, With Links)

  1. What are the fastest, safest words to use when I ask for help at work?
    Say: “I have a limitation related to pregnancy and need a change at work.” Give one or two concrete requests (breaks, seating, lifting limits, schedule). Then email the same wording to HR. Use EEOC PWFA guidance, WY Labor Standards, and ADA resources to prepare. (eeoc.gov)
  2. Do I need a doctor note to get an accommodation?
    Often no—EEOC says documentation requests must be reasonable, and many common needs (water, bathroom, sit/stand) don’t require notes. If requested, give a short note with your restriction and expected duration. See EEOC PWFA Q&A and summary of the final rule. (eeoc.gov)
  3. How soon do I need to file a discrimination charge?
    WY FEPA: within 6 months. EEOC: generally 180–300 days depending on state law. File as soon as you can. Start at EEOC time limits and WY filing rules. (eeoc.gov)
  4. I work for a small employer—do I still have rights?
    PWFA and Title VII apply at 15+ employees, but Wyoming’s state law also protects pregnancy in many settings. For pump breaks, the PUMP Act covers most employees regardless of exempt/nonexempt status. Check with WY Labor Standards, EEOC Denver, and WHD Denver. (dws.wyo.gov)
  5. Can my boss force me to take unpaid leave?
    Under PWFA, not if another reasonable accommodation works. Ask for temporary job duty changes first. Use EEOC PWFA and keep notes of all conversations. (eeoc.gov)
  6. Do I have to be paid during pump breaks?
    If you’re not fully relieved of duty while pumping, yes. If you use paid breaks for pumping, they must be paid the same way. See Fact Sheet #73. (dol.gov)
  7. How do I find prenatal care and family planning in my county?
    Use Wyoming Health Council Title X clinics, Medicaid Apply, and WIC application. They provide interpretation and sliding fee services. (wyhc.org)
  8. What if I lose my job during pregnancy—can I get Unemployment?
    You must be able/available for suitable work and actively seeking; apply online at WY U.I. or call 1‑307‑473‑3789. Ask about availability modifications if medically restricted. For job help, contact Climb Wyoming. (dws.wyo.gov)
  9. How do I prevent a heat shutoff this winter with a newborn?
    Apply to LIEAP and request Crisis if you’re at risk of disconnection; ask your utility for a payment plan; if refused, file with the Wyoming PSC. Keep proof of your application. (dfs.wyo.gov)
  10. Who can help with safety planning if I’m facing abuse?
    Call Wyoming Coalition Against DV/SA 1‑844‑264‑8080 or the National DV Hotline 1‑800‑799‑7233; ask for workplace safety accommodations under PWFA. For housing, ask HUD Wyoming about counselors near you. (wyomingdvsa.org)

Printable Application Steps — Benefits (SNAP, Medicaid, WIC, LIEAP)

  1. Gather documents: Photo ID, proof of pregnancy, pay stubs, lease, and utility bills. Use Medicaid Apply, SNAP forms, and LIEAP portal. (health.wyo.gov)
  2. Apply online or by phone: Medicaid at WDH; SNAP interview line 1‑307‑777‑8550; WIC appointments via WIC apply; LIEAP via DFS. (health.wyo.gov)
  3. Track and follow up: Email SNAP docs to snappowerservice@wyo.gov per DFS SNAP contact and call DFS or WDH Customer Service with your case number. Use Wyoming 2‑1‑1 to find stopgap help while your case processes. (dfs.wyo.gov)

Spanish Summary / Resumen en Español

Este resumen fue producido con herramientas de traducción de IA; verifique los detalles con las agencias oficiales.

About This Guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team.

This guide uses official sources including:

Last verified September 2025, next review April January 2026.

This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed. Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur – email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 72 hours.

Disclaimer

This guide is general information, not legal advice. Laws and benefit rules change. Always confirm with your employer, agency caseworker, or a licensed attorney. For legal help, contact Legal Aid of Wyoming 1‑877‑432‑9955, EEOC Denver, or U.S. DOL WHD Denver. If you feel unsafe, call 911 and reach out to WCADVSA. (lawyoming.org)

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