PREGNANCY DISCRIMINATION IN THE WORKPLACE

Aug 04, 2016
By Peter Friedmann

Have you been discriminated against or treated poorly because of your pregnancy?

Have you been passed over for a promotion or terminated from your job shortly after announcing your pregnancy?

Did you take FMLA leave to have your baby and were fired while on leave or shortly after you returned?

If so, the Ohio pregnancy discrimination lawyers at The Friedmann Firm can help.  The Columbus employment lawyers at our firm believe in fighting for the rights of mothers in the workplace.  Visit our FAQ page for more information.

The Pregnancy Discrimination Act of 1978 is part of the Title VII Civil Rights Act of 1964.  The Pregnancy Discrimination act prohibits employers from discriminating against employees because of their pregancy.  Pregnancy discrimination is a form of “sex” or “gender” discrimination, prohibited by Title VII.  Therefore, your employer cannot discriminate against you because you are pregnant, because you took time off to have and care for your baby (if leave is available to you, like maternity leave or FMLA leave) or if you suffer from a medical condition related to your pregnancy.  This list is non-exhaustive, meaning there could be other types of pregnancy discrimination present in your workplace.

Employees who are either having a child or need to take time off after the birth of a child can utilize FMLA leave, provided they are eligible for it.  Read more here on who is eligible for FMLA leave in Ohio.  There are also two types of FMLA leave available- continuous and intermittent.

If you are having complications with your pregnancy or need light duty, your employer has to engage in a meaningful discussion with you about how to accommodate you during this time.  Reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act may be available to you.

If you have questions regarding what your rights are at work, do not hesitate to call the Ohio pregnancy discimination lawyers at our firm today.