In April, 2013, Morgan McCloskey was hired to work as a front desk attendant at a Massage Envy franchise. Before her first day of work, McCloskey took a home pregnancy test and the result was positive. As detailed in this article, a complaint filed by the EEOC alleges that on her first day of work, McCloskey told a supervisor of her possible pregnancy.
After a doctor confirmed her pregnancy a few days later, McCloskey was called into a meeting with two managers and her employment with the well known spa was terminated.
After attempts to reach a settlement with the franchise failed, the EEOC is seeking injunctive relief to bar future discrimination by the franchise. In addition, the EEOC is asking for back pay and damages.
Attorney for the EEOC, Lynette Barnes, “No working woman should have to fear losing her job simply because she decides to have a child.” Further stating, “Employers must remember that terminating an employee because she is pregnant violates federal law.”
Speaking for Massage Envy, attorney Nichole Murphey, “Massage Envy has never terminated anyone’s employment due to pregnancy. My client has routinely employed and currently continues to employ pregnant women.”
If you or someone you know thinks they have been terminated for unlawful reasons, the team at Radford & Keebaugh can help. Contact us by phone at (678) 369-3609 or use our contact form.