Maryland Leave of Absence for Pregnancy is a legal provision that ensures employees are granted time off from work to address pregnancy-related health conditions, childbirth, and bonding with their newborn or adopted child. This leave is protected under both federal and state laws, providing women the necessary time to recover physically and emotionally while maintaining job security. When it comes to Maryland Leave of Absence for Pregnancy, there are two main types individuals should be aware of: the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and the Maryland Parental Leave Act (PLA). The FMLA provides eligible employees with up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave during a 12-month period for various reasons, including pregnancy, prenatal care, childbirth, and recovery. To qualify for FMLA, an employee must work for a covered employer (private sector companies with 50 or more employees) and have completed at least 1,250 hours of work in the previous 12 months. The leave can be taken all at once or intermittently if medical necessity requires it. Maryland's PLA covers employees who work for smaller employers (companies with 15 or more employees) who may not be covered by FMLA. The PLA grants eligible employees up to six weeks of unpaid leave for pregnancy-related disabilities and up to an additional six weeks for bonding with their newborn or newly placed adopted child. It is important to note that these 12 weeks also include any leave taken under FMLA during the same year. During the leave period, employees are entitled to maintain their health insurance benefits and return to their same or equivalent position upon their return to work. Employers are prohibited from retaliating against employees for taking Maryland Leave of Absence for Pregnancy or interfering with their rights granted by these laws. In conclusion, Maryland Leave of Absence for Pregnancy comprises both the Federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and the Maryland Parental Leave Act (PLA). These legislations provide eligible employees necessary time off to address pregnancy-related health conditions and bonding with their child.