Women who are pregnant or have newborns face unique challenges. Some of these challenges can affect the woman while she is at work. Just last week, we discussed how women who are breastfeeding are afforded special protections so they can pump milk at work for the baby. That is only one small facet of the protections that women have.
We understand that being pregnant should be a joyous time in a woman’s life. For a pregnant woman, the accommodations she has to make are just part of the journey. Sadly, some employers use a woman’s pregnancy as a way to discriminate against her. That type of behavior is forbidden by the Pregnancy Discrimination Act, which is a federal act.
There are several different aspects of employment that are covered under the PDA. These include benefits and health insurance, hiring, working conditions, promotional opportunities, pay and different types of terminations. In all those situations, it is illegal for an employer to discriminate.
The PDA isn’t the only act that is applicable to pregnant women. All women who are pregnant have rights under the Family and Medical Leave Act. Nursing mothers have rights under the Fair Labor Standards Act.
Any pregnant or nursing woman must ensure that her rights are being respected. When those rights aren’t being respected, we can help you to explore your options. You don’t have to deal with discrimination of any sort. From the investigation to the final outcome of the case, we can stand by you as you fight for the rights you are due under the current laws.
