In a strong move to deter the upward rise in pregnancy discrimination, for the first time in thirty years, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has updated its pregnancy guidelines.
As described in this article, Chairwoman for the EEOC, Jacqueline A. Berrien, stated, “Despite much progress, we continue to see a significant number of charges alleging pregnancy discrimination, and our investigations have revealed the persistence of overt pregnancy discrimination, as well as the emergence of more subtle discriminatory practices.”
According to the latest EEOC data, between 1997 to 2011 there was a 46 percent increase in pregnancy related complaints to the EEOC.
In part, the new guidelines bar employers from forcing pregnant employees to take leave, and provides that employers may be required to provide light duty to pregnant employees as needed. In addition, the updated EEOC guidelines provide that similarly situated male employees shall be given the same rights as women in regards to parental leave.
The EEOC’s new pregnancy guidelines set forth how the Americans With Disabilities Act is applicable to pregnant workers. They also make clear that any discrimination and/or harassment based on past, present or future pregnancy against any woman is strictly illegal.
If you or someone you know thinks they have experienced employment discrimination due to pregnancy, the team at Radford & Keebaugh can help. Contact us by phone at (678) 369-3609 or use our contact form.