Having a baby may be a lifelong dream for you. Everyone knows how important it is for you to become a mother. It has taken years to make this dream a reality and you are finally pregnant. Now, as you prepare for the greatest day of your life, what if one day your employer tells you that if you leave to have your baby, there will not be a job waiting for you when you return?
The Pregnancy Discrimination Act of 1978
Thankfully, there are federal laws on the books to protect pregnant women like just you who are being discriminated against. Mothers like you bring life into the world and deserve protection. The Pregnancy Discrimination Act of 1978 (PDA) was enacted specifically for that reason.
- The Act protects pregnant mothers on job interviews and in the workplace of being treated unfairly because of pregnancy.
- The Act also covers medical conditions related to pregnancy and childbirth.
- The PDA Act forbids discrimination of any kind in terms of employment when it comes to layoffs, promotions, or fringe benefits.
- Your employer must treat you the same as an employee with a disability and offer the same rights if you are temporarily unable to perform your job because of pregnancy.
- You also cannot be harassed at your workplace. It is considered illegal if it occurs often and creates an environment that can be considered to be hostile.
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) Act of 1993
Another law that can offer some protection is called the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) of 1993. It gives new parents like you 12 weeks of paid or unpaid leave to take care of your child. To be eligible to take advantage of it, you must have worked for your company for a year.
If you are a victim of pregnancy discrimination it is good to know that you have rights, especially when it comes to giving birth to the child of your dreams.