Legislation to allow pregnant women to ask employers for accommodations at work was heard in the Indiana House on Tuesday, but critics say its too weak and doesnt actually change anything.

For many mothers giving birth during the pandemic, pregnancy has not gone as planned. To learn about these experiences, a pair of researchers is collecting pandemic birth stories from across the country.

Though many people who have been seriously ill from COVID-19 are older or have underlying health conditions, its still unclear what causes certain people to get really sick. Aquarius Bunch was a healthy 27-year-old working at an assisted living facility in the Midwest when she got COVID-19. And she was pregnant.

The bill would have provided reasonable accommodations for pregnant workers like rest breaks, options to sit, or a water bottle.

There isn't data to show if pregnant women are at higher risk for severe illness than non-pregnant people, and the CDC hasn't released specific guidelines if pregnant women shouldn't work in public-facing jobs during the pandemic.

First-time parents have a lot to celebrate. But right now, in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, there's also a lot to fear.

Guidelines to prevent the spread of COVID-19 are in place to protect those most at risk including people over 60 and those with underlying health conditions. But, doctors say there's still a lot we don't know about the risks for women who are pregnant.

It looks unlikely the House will restore employment accommodations for pregnant workers that were stripped out in the Senate last week. The issue appears headed for a summer study committee even as Gov. Eric Holcomb pushes for more.

If passed, the bill would make employers grant pregnant workers job modifications like lighter duties, longer break times, or unpaid time off work. If they dont, they would be held accountable to the Indiana Civil Rights Commission.

Gov. Eric Holcomb has signed new legislation to make Indiana the third state to extend Medicaid coverage for doulas, who provide physical and emotional assistance for mothers.