Legal Protections for Pregnant Employees in Atlantic County
Federal laws like the Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA) and the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) provide essential protections for workers in Atlantic County who face discrimination due to pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions.
Key protections include:
- Employers cannot fire, demote, or reduce the hours of an employee because she is pregnant.
- Discrimination in hiring based on pregnancy is prohibited.
- Pregnant employees are entitled to reasonable accommodations if similar support is offered to other temporarily disabled workers.
- Upon returning from maternity leave, employees must be reinstated to the same or an equivalent position.
- Employers cannot require pregnant workers to stay on leave if they are able and willing to return to work.
- Denying promotions, salary increases, or professional opportunities due to pregnancy status is unlawful.
- Attending prenatal medical appointments must not be penalized if similar absences for other medical reasons are treated differently.
What Qualifies as Pregnancy Discrimination?
Pregnancy discrimination includes any adverse employment action related to pregnancy, childbirth, or associated medical conditions. Common examples involve:
- Being denied a job or promotion due to pregnancy.
- Termination shortly after disclosing a pregnancy.
- Forced unpaid leave or refusal to provide accommodations like schedule adjustments or lighter duties.
Pregnancy and Temporary Disability Status
While pregnancy itself is not classified as a disability under federal law, pregnancy-related conditions such as gestational diabetes or preeclampsia may qualify under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). When this applies, employers must provide reasonable accommodations.
Leave Rights and Return-to-Work Rules
Employers are barred from requiring leave due to pregnancy if the employee is capable of performing job duties. Additionally:
- Pregnant employees cannot be required to remain on leave once cleared to return by a medical provider.
- A doctor’s note can only be required if the same standard is applied to other employees seeking medical leave.
Take Legal Action in Atlantic County
If you’ve experienced pregnancy discrimination in the workplace, consult with an attorney at NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC. Our team helps clients in Atlantic County protect their rights under both federal and state law. We provide strategic legal guidance and pursue compensation when employers violate pregnancy-related employment protections.
Learn more or schedule a consultation by contacting us today.