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Pregnancy discrimination is a serious issue in today's workplace, affecting countless employees each year. The experienced employment attorneys at Nichols Kaster PLLP delve into the topic of pregnancy discrimination and rights in the workplace, covering existing laws related to pregnancy discrimination, pregnant employees' rights, and steps employees can take if they are discriminated against.
Existing Laws Related to Pregnancy Discrimination
In the United States, the Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA) is a federal law that prohibits employers from discriminating against employees based on pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions. The PDA, enacted in 1978 as an amendment to Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, applies to employers with 15 or more employees.
Under the PDA, employers must treat pregnant employees like other employees who are similar in their ability or inability to work. This means employers must provide reasonable accommodations, such as modified work schedules or light duty assignments, to pregnant employees if they do so for other employees with temporary disabilities or injuries.
Pregnant Employees' Rights
Pregnant employees have the right to receive fair and equal treatment in the workplace. Some of the key rights afforded to pregnant employees under the PDA and other laws include:
- Equal treatment: Employers are obligated to treat employees who are pregnant in the same way as other non-pregnant employees in comparable situations who are similar in their ability or inability to work.
- Reasonable accommodations: Accommodations for pregnant employees should be provided as employers do for other employees with temporary disabilities or limitations.
- Leave and benefits: Pregnant employees are entitled to the same leave and benefits, such as family and medical leave, as other employees with similar limitations or disabilities.
- Freedom from harassment: Pregnant employees should be provided a workplace environment free from harassment based on their pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions.
- Freedom from retaliation: It is illegal for employers to retaliate against pregnant employees who complain of discrimination or a failure to accommodate or who are denied protected leave.
Take Action if Your Rights Were Violated
It is essential for pregnant employees to be aware of their rights and the laws protecting them from discrimination. Employers must ensure that they are treating pregnant employees fairly and providing reasonable accommodations. If you are pregnant and have been discriminated against, consult an experienced employment attorney.
Victims of pregnancy discrimination should contact Nichols Kaster PLLP because we possess the expertise and experience needed to navigate complex employment laws and passionately advocate for your rights. Our unwavering commitment to justice and fairness ensures that you receive the personalized attention and effective legal representation you deserve in pursuing a fair resolution.
Together, we can work towards fostering a fair and just workplace for all. Contact Nichols Kaster PLLP online or by phone to get started. (877) 344-4628
