The Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA) was created to protect women from workplace discrimination due to her pregnancy. Pregnancy discrimination in the workplace may involve any of the following:
- Refusing to hire;
- Failing to promote;
- Demoting;
- Firing;
- Placing an employee on leave;
- Not allowing a person to work;
- Reducing an employee’s hours;
- Limiting assignments for safety reasons;
- Requiring medical clearance or notes;
- Failing to provide accommodations;
- Employer retaliation; and
- Different or disparaging treatment.
A company is not allowed to fire a person, change his or her daily job description or deny them benefits due to their pregnancy. In addition, pregnancy can cause certain medical conditions that may require reasonable accommodations in order for a person to perform his or her job. An employer must provide these reasonable accommodations in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This may include, working remotely, alternative assignments, disability leave, or an extended leave of absence.
If you have been faced with discrimination, it is important to:
- Speak with a superior about any hostility you are experiencing or missed opportunities.
- Speak with Human Resources regarding any discrimination or hostility in the work environment to determine the next course of action. Make sure to familiarize yourself with company policies and protocols to protect yourself.
- Contact an experienced employment lawyer. If your employer has or is continuing to violate your rights, it is important to speak with an experienced employment law attorney who can protect your rights and assist you in receiving the compensation you deserve.
Navigating the complexities of discrimination in the workplace can be difficult. It is important that individuals who have faced employment discrimination seek the guidance of an experienced employment discrimination lawyer. Steven Sack, “The Employee’s Lawyer,” has represented individuals alleging unfair employee discrimination for more than 37 years. Mr. Sack is knowledgeable in all aspects of employment law and fights zealously on behalf of his clients.For more information or to schedule a consultation, call (917) 371-8000 or email sms@StevenSack.com.
