Federal Pump Act Guidance Clarifies Nursing Rights for Dollar General Workers

The Department of Labor page explains current federal protections for employees who need to express milk at work. Most employees are entitled to reasonable break time for up to one year after the child is born, and employers must provide a place other than a bathroom that is shielded from view and free from intrusion. The guidance also clarifies that break time need not be paid unless the employer already provides paid breaks.

Employers with fewer than 50 employees can claim an exemption only if compliance would cause undue hardship. Employees are protected from retaliation for exercising their rights, and they may file complaints with the Wage and Hour Division of the Department of Labor if protections are denied. The guidance offers practical examples of compliant spaces and scheduling considerations, and it addresses how employers can incorporate pumping breaks into work routines.

For employees at retail companies such as Dollar General the guidance matters because store level realities can complicate compliance. Many stores operate with limited space and small staffs, making it harder to find a private room and to cover work while an employee takes a pumping break. Managers and human resources staff may need to plan scheduling, adjust break policies, and designate appropriate private spaces to avoid violating federal law and to prevent retaliation claims.

The guidance serves as a primary federal resource employees can use to evaluate whether store practices meet legal requirements for reasonable pumping breaks and private space. Workers who believe their rights have been violated should document requests and denials, raise the issue with management, and if needed file a complaint with the Wage and Hour Division. Clear communication, reasonable scheduling adjustments, and designated private space can reduce conflict and help maintain compliance while supporting nursing employees on the job.