The name of the company is Castronovo & McKinney, LLC. Federal law protects pregnant workers from discrimination through the Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA) and the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). These laws guarantee that:
- Employers cannot fire an employee because she is pregnant.
- Pregnant applicants cannot be denied employment if they are qualified for the position.
- Pregnant employees must receive the same accommodations as other employees with temporary disabilities.
- Workers must be restored to their previous position or an equivalent role after maternity or pregnancy-related leave.
- Employers cannot reduce hours, remove responsibilities, or demote employees due to pregnancy.
- Pregnant employees can return to work as soon as they are medically cleared, before or after childbirth.
- Employees attending prenatal appointments cannot be penalized if other workers are not penalized for medical appointments.
- Pregnancy cannot be used to block promotions or pay increases.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pregnancy Discrimination
What is pregnancy discrimination?
Pregnancy discrimination occurs when an employee faces unfair treatment in hiring, firing, promotions, pay, job assignments, training, or benefits due to pregnancy. Employers cannot reduce pay or hours or create a hostile work environment for pregnant workers.
Is pregnancy a disability?
Pregnancy itself is not a disability under federal law. However, pregnancy-related conditions, such as gestational diabetes or preeclampsia, may be considered temporary disabilities under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Can an employer force leave?
No. Employers cannot require pregnant employees to take leave if they are able to work. Similarly, leave cannot be forced after recovery from a pregnancy-related condition.
Do pregnant workers need to provide doctor’s notes?
Employers cannot demand more medical documentation from pregnant employees than from other workers with temporary conditions. Policies must be applied consistently.
Legal Representation for Pregnancy Discrimination in Mullica Township, NJ
If you have faced discrimination, demotion, or wrongful termination due to pregnancy in Mullica Township, NJ, the attorneys at Castronovo & McKinney, LLC can help. Our firm enforces workers’ rights under state and federal law and ensures employers are held accountable for violating the rights of pregnant employees.