No matter your personal situation, facing a pregnancy can be a time of great physical and emotional turmoil. Even the most well-planned pregnancy can be subjected to multiple unexpected factors and challenging decisions. When your ability to make a living is negatively impacted, however, it is important to act quickly.
In recent years, employees have gained greater protection against workplace discrimination. Unfortunately, many organizations either plead ignorance to the various laws or ignore them completely. Discrimination on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions is strictly prohibited by Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
What pregnancy-related protections are included in the Pregnancy Discrimination Act amended Title VII?
While it is illegal to discriminate based on pregnancy, it is also illegal to retaliate against an employee who challenges discriminatory practices. Retaliation can include termination, transfer to a different department, demotion or other negative actions. Contacting an employment law attorney is a critical step in protecting yourself and your financial future.