The leaked Supreme Court opinion that showed the Court is likely to overturn Roe v. Wade means many states will ban abortions before most women even know they are pregnant. Understandably, this issue is front and center for many women, including those in the workforce. The inability to decide what is best for their own body is a major source of stress for those of childbearing age. This stress can impact work performance, attendance, and even lead to the loss of an employee.
The medical and mental health of employees and their families are key to achieving productivity in the workplace. Companies with strong benefits and policies that help to protect their team’s health are typically rated as the best places to work. Happy employees who feel secure and respected in their workplace are typically more productive because they do not deal with as many stressors.
With the repeal of Roe v. Wade as a reality in the not-so-distant future, many well-rated employers are stepping up to assist with the stress these laws are causing to employees and their families.
Companies such as Amazon, Microsoft, Yelp, Apple, Citigroup, and Salesforce are offering benefits ranging from assistance with travel costs if it is necessary to seek reproductive healthcare in another state to financial support in relocating within the company to another state. These are big statements for companies, especially those that have large facilities in the states where these laws are being enacted. As Salesforce told employees in an internal memo, “These are incredibly personal issues that directly impact many of us – especially women. As a company, we stand with all of our women at Salesforce and everywhere.”
As an employment law firm committed to protecting the rights of employees, The Noble Law applauds the moves made by these companies. When organizations go to these lengths to protect the health of their team (and especially when they back it up with their wallet), it demonstrates to employees that they are valued and respected. The employer response to Roe v. Wade will continue to be an integral part of this unfolding story.