Gov. Kathy Hochul recently called for more paid time off for pregnant workers to attend prenatal medical appointments in an effort to reverse the increased rates of newborn and maternal deaths. This proposed expansion of the state’s Paid Family Leave law, pending approval by State Legislature, would provide up to 40 hours of paid leave so that expecting mothers can attend pregnancy-related medical visits. Currently, paid leave provisions only come into effect four weeks before expected childbirth, following a one-week waiting period. This proposal addresses the issue of women having to choose between necessary medical appointments and potential loss of income. Gov. Hochul highlighted that this issue is particularly prevalent among lower-income households and minority families. Despite Gov. Hochul’s proposal, the cost implications for both employers and employees have not yet been disclosed. The state Business Council, represented by Patrick Bailey, has advised a measured approach to expand Paid Family Leave policies with consideration for hardship to businesses. Further details are expected to be shared during the upcoming State of the State address. The state’s paid sick leave law for workers contracting COVID-19 was also proposed to be abolished, to ease the adoption of new state policies by businesses.