New WNBA union deal offers sweeping family and parental benefits

The WNBA and its union came to a far-reaching deal yesterday that adds new wellness and family benefits. In addition to higher salaries and travel improvements, the new benefits, once approved, will provide players on maternity leave with their full salary, and will create a dedicated space in arenas for nursing mothers. Players will also be eligible for a $5,000 annual child care stipend, and those with children will be guaranteed two-bedroom apartments. Other family benefits include up to $60,000 in reimbursable expenses for fees associated with adoption, surrogacy, egg freezing, and fertility treatments. The deal also offers added resources for mental health, domestic and intimate partner violence, nutrition, and women’s health experts.