Pregnancy Discrimination in San Francisco
Attorneys of Brownstein Thomas defining Workplace Laws protecting Pregnant Women
As a new or expectant mother, you were probably overjoyed to learn of your pregnancy. It can be a period of great happiness and excitement; but those feelings can be dampened if you become a victim of pregnancy based bias on the part of your employer. This kind of discrimination is a form of sexism and is a violation of your rights as a woman and mother. The San Francisco pregnancy discrimination lawyers of Brownstein Thomas, LLP are well-prepared to provide legal guidance and counsel to you and your family if you are a victim of prejudice against pregnant women.
Unlawful Pregnancy Discrimination
It is illegal to discriminate pregnant women. There are several situations covered and enforced under this law, including:
- Employers cannot discriminate against a woman for being pregnant and unmarried
- Employers cannot hire or terminate an employee because of pregnancy or possibility of pregnancy
- Employees cannot be forced to take maternity leave
- Employers cannot deny compensation or benefits provided to other employees to a woman just because she is pregnant
Bias Against Childbirth & Breastfeeding
Employers must treat a pregnancy as they would any other temporarily disabling medical conditions. The health insurance benefits provided to the woman by her employer must also cover her pregnancy related treatments the same as any other required medical treatment (within the scope of the health plan's coverage). Under California State law, all women also have the right to breastfeed their children in any public or private place (with a few minor exceptions).
Our San Francisco pregnancy discrimination attorneys want you to be aware of your rights if you are contemplating pregnancy or are currently pregnant and believe you are a victim of discrimination. To discuss your case, call Brownstein Thomas, LLP at 877.214.9714 today to discuss your situation, or fill out our web form today.
