Story perspectives

WNBA Enacts 'Dearica Hamby Rule' Protecting Pregnant Players

3/25/2026

Summary

Story summary

The WNBA's collective bargaining agreement includes 'The Dearica Hamby Rule,' requiring consent before trading a pregnant player.
The rule stems from Dearica Hamby's experience being traded while pregnant, an ordeal she described as traumatic.
The agreement recognizes pregnancy as a protected class and expands family planning benefits.
Negotiations lasted eight days, focusing on revenue sharing and rookie salaries.
Hamby later founded the Dear Marie Foundation to support mothers.

History

Historical Context

The Pregnancy Discrimination Act of 1978 established protections against employment discrimination for pregnant women, following significant court rulings that highlighted the need for equitable treatment. Recent developments, such as 'The Dearica Hamby Rule,' emphasize the ongoing struggle for fair policies in professional sports, ensuring that pregnancy is recognized as a protected class and promoting support for mothers in the workplace.

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Story summary

The WNBA's collective bargaining agreement includes 'The Dearica Hamby Rule,' requiring consent before trading a pregnant player.
The rule stems from Dearica Hamby's experience being traded while pregnant, an ordeal she described as traumatic.
The agreement recognizes pregnancy as a protected class and expands family planning benefits.
Negotiations lasted eight days, focusing on revenue sharing and rookie salaries.
Hamby later founded the Dear Marie Foundation to support mothers.

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