Starting a family is an exciting and joyful time. However, while many workplaces are supportive, your boss may not feel the same way. When you experience workplace discrimination, it is important to know that pregnancy is a protected class under the Federal Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VII), and the California Fair Employment in Housing Act (FEHA). These laws, which a workplace discrimination attorney could further explain, encompass health and family, relating to pregnancy and childbirth.
Although both the federal and state legislation offer similar recourse for pregnancy discrimination, FEHA claims are generally resolved more quickly and offer a wider range of damages you can be awarded. When your employer is treating you unfairly, a Los Angeles pregnancy discrimination lawyer could root out and rectify the problem.
According to Title VII and FEHA, employers must consider pregnant women, those trying to conceive, and those of childbearing age when hiring and for training and promotions. When an employee becomes pregnant, employers cannot:
Discriminatory tactics can result in regulatory complaints and lawsuits seeking compensation from the offending employer. Our compassionate Los Angeles pregnancy discrimination attorneys use their years of experience to provide aggressive representation.
Employees have 180 days after the unlawful conduct to file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) for discrimination under Title VII. The offending workplace must employ at least 15 people before the employer is subject to federal law.
A pregnancy discrimination complaint in Los Angeles must be filed with the California Civil Rights Department within three years. To file a claim under FEHA, the discriminatory business must employ at least five people.
Title VII and FEHA are not the only protections for pregnant workers. California’s Pregnancy Disability Leave Law (PDLL) and the federal Pregnant Workers Fairness Act of 2023 impose duties on employers to accommodate pregnant workers and refrain from discrimination. These duties can include:
California law also provides pregnancy disability leave (PDL), for a time specified by the mother’s healthcare provider, when an employee is disabled by pregnancy, childbirth, or a related incapacity. PDL will cover conditions such as:
PDL is typically unpaid unless the employer has a specific policy that leave is paid. A seasoned Los Angeles lawyer could provide guidance throughout a pregnancy discrimination claim.
Federal and California laws addressing discrimination and accommodations for pregnant employees can be confusing and duplicative. When you file a discrimination complaint under federal law, your company must have a larger workforce than under state law. Overlooking these small points can railroad your efforts.
The experienced attorneys at Employee Civil Rights Group know your rights and are prepared to protect them. Regulatory complaints and civil lawsuits net different outcomes, but our lawyers pride themselves on keeping you informed and ensuring you understand the process every step of the way. If you are pregnant or plan to be and you are having a hard time at work because of it, call a Los Angeles pregnancy discrimination lawyer at our firm today.
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