Legal News: Law No. 7,383/2024 on Permits for Pregnant Workers

On December 17, 2024, the President of the Republic promulgated Law No. 7,383/2024, which establishes work permits for pregnant workers, applicable to both the public and private sectors. This regulation seeks to ensure that pregnant workers can attend prenatal consultations, check-ups and studies necessary for their health and that of the newborn. The Executive Branch must regulate the law within 120 days of its promulgation.

Key points of the Law:

Right to Prenatal Leave:

Every pregnant worker has the right to be absent from her workplace for up to four (4) hours to attend prenatal check-ups. This time may be extended at the discretion of the attending physician. The hours used are considered working time and cannot be deducted from the salary. The Ministry of Public Health and Social Welfare will establish the minimum number of prenatal check-ups required.

Procedure to Request the Permit:

Female employees must notify their employer at least two (2) days in advance of appointments, presenting a receipt issued by the health professional certifying their attendance. In urgent situations, this period may be modified. If the doctor considers an extension of the leave necessary, the employee must present the corresponding certificate.

Penalties for Non-Compliance:

Employers who fail to comply with these provisions will face fines of 10 to 50 minimum daily wages for each affected worker. In the event of a repeat offence, the fines will be doubled.

The proceeds will be allocated to the Maternal and Child Health program of the Ministry of Public Health.

Monitoring and Compliance:

Compliance with the law will be supervised by the Ministry of Labor, Employment and Social Security, the Ministry of Economy and Finance and the Ministry of Public Health and Social Welfare through the Vice Ministry of Human Capital and Organizational Management, each within its area of competence.

Implications of the Law:

Law No. 7,383/2024 strengthens the labor rights of pregnant workers in Paraguay, ensuring that they have the necessary time to attend to their prenatal health without affecting their remuneration. In addition, it establishes clear obligations for employers and sanctions in case of non-compliance, promoting a safer and more equitable work environment for future mothers.

Impact on the Workplace :

With the enactment of this law, Paraguay is moving forward in protecting the rights of pregnant workers, aligning itself with international standards of health and well-being at work. The legislation not only benefits workers, but also contributes to a healthier society by ensuring adequate care during pregnancy. In short, Law No. 7,383/2024 represents a significant step towards consolidating labor rights and promoting maternal health in the country, establishing a legal framework that protects and supports workers at a crucial stage of their lives.