Lactation Accommodation Policy

Policy Statement

Who Is Covered

This policy applies to all POIETO employees — full-time, part-time, temporary, and employees working at partner program sites. It applies for up to two years after the birth of a child.

Break Time

POIETO provides employees with reasonable break time to express breast milk each time the employee has need to express milk. This may occur as often as needed.

• Break time runs concurrently with any paid break time already provided where possible. Breaks beyond existing paid breaks may be unpaid, consistent with California law.
• The employee and their supervisor should work together to schedule lactation breaks in a way that works for both program delivery and the employee’s needs. If scheduling becomes a challenge, contact POIETO HR.
• Non-exempt employees must still record all compensable time accurately, including any time spent on lactation breaks that runs concurrently with paid break time.

Private Space

Employees working at partner program sites should notify POIETO HR so we can coordinate with the site to ensure a compliant space is available before the employee returns from leave. Do not assume the site has an adequate space without confirming.

How to Request

There is no formal request form required. Simply notify POIETO HR in advance of your need — ideally before returning from any parental leave, or as soon as the need arises. We will work with you and your supervisor to arrange break time and confirm a suitable space.

No Retaliation

POIETO will not discharge, discriminate against, or retaliate against any employee for exercising any right under this policy or under California or federal lactation accommodation law. If you believe you have been retaliated against, contact POIETO HR or the California Labor Commissioner (844-522-6734 · dir.ca.gov/dlse).

Small Employer Note

California law provides a limited undue hardship exemption for employers with fewer than 50 employees who can demonstrate that compliance would impose serious difficulty. POIETO does not intend to rely on this exemption and will make every reasonable effort to provide full accommodation. If a genuine operational conflict arises at a specific site, contact HR immediately so we can work on a solution.

Questions

Questions about this policy, your rights under California law, or how to arrange accommodations should be directed to POIETO HR. You may also contact the California Civil Rights Department (800-884-1684) or the California Labor Commissioner with questions about your legal rights.