Can a Job Fire You If You’re Pregnant?
In the United States, the answer to this question has a complicated answer. Unfortunately, it is possible for a job to fire you upon discovering that you are pregnant. Luckily, there are a few laws in place that are designed to protect pregnant employees.
Protections for Pregnant Employees
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) enforces laws that prohibit workplace discrimination, including discrimination based on pregnancy. This means that if your employer attempts to fire you or otherwise take adverse action against you based on your pregnancy status, they may be in violation of federal law.
Another protection available to pregnant employees is the Pregnancy Discrimination Act. This act, which was passed in 1978, makes it illegal for an employer to discriminate against an employee or potential employee based on pregnancy. It also requires employers to provide reasonable accommodations to pregnant employees.
Risks for Employers
If an employer does attempt to fire you for being pregnant, then they are at risk for legal action. Employees are able to file claims with the EEOC, and the agency will investigate the matter and determine whether discrimination has taken place. The EEOC can also order the employer to pay damages or reinstate the employee.
Additionally, employers may be more likely to face a discrimination lawsuit if they have a history of pregnancy discrimination or if they have other employees who were treated differently due to their pregnancy status.
Tips for Pregnant Employees
The best thing that you can do if you think you have faced discrimination due to your pregnancy is to contact the EEOC or a qualified attorney as soon as possible to understand your rights and protect your interests. Additionally, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Be honest: It is best to be honest with your employer and inform them of your pregnancy as soon as possible.
- Take notes: If you feel that your employer is treating you differently due to your pregnancy, it is important to take notes and document the experience.
- Know your rights: Make sure that you understand the laws that protect pregnant employees, so that you are aware of your rights and can take action if necessary.
Hopefully, this article has helped to answer your question about whether a job can fire you if you’re pregnant. Remember, there are laws in place to protect pregnant employees, so make sure you understand your rights and don’t hesitate to take action if you think you have been the victim of discrimination.