Can my employer discriminate against me because I’m pregnant? Ohio pregnancy discrimination lawyers

If you are being discriminated against because of your pregnancy, contact our Ohio pregnancy discrimination lawyers today.

As Ohio pregnancy discrimination lawyers, it’s important that employees understand that they are protected from pregnancy discrimination.

The federal protection from pregnancy discrimination is based upon the Pregnancy Discrimination Act of 1978 set forth within Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. In Title VII, an employer is defined as having at least 15 employees. Within Title VII, the “terms ‘because of sex’ or ‘on the basis of sex’ include, but are not limited to, because of or on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; and women affected by pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions shall be treated the same for all employment-related purposes.” Accordingly, pregnant employees are protected from discrimination by their employers as a result of their pregnancy or related medical conditions.

The Ohio laws against employment discrimination also protect pregnant employees from discrimination. Unlike federal law, Ohio law covers employers having at least four employees.

In addition to protection against discrimination because of their pregnancy, individuals employed by larger employers  (50 or more employees within a 75 mile radius) are likely entitled to FMLA leave. Eligible employees may receive 12 weeks of leave if they have worked a minimum of 1,250 hours in the previous 12 month period for serious medical conditions, including but not limited to pregnancy and any medical issues related to it. If an employee requests and/or receives FMLA leave, their employer may not interfere with their right to take the leave or retaliate against them for doing so.

In circumstances where an employee’s pregnancy (or complications from it) affects their ability to do their job, their employer must make reasonable accommodations to enable the employee to continue working through or after their pregnancy. It is important for an employee to be open with her employer about her pregnancy to ensure that the employer cannot claim ignorance about the pregnancy or medical issues resulting therefrom should the employer take unlawful action.

If you believe you are being or  have been discriminated against because of your pregnancy or issues resulting from your pregnancy contact our Ohio pregnancy discrimination lawyers immediately. Our Ohio pregnancy discrimination lawyers are well-versed in pregnancy discrimination. Our Ohio employment discrimination lawyers will walk you through the steps necessary to protect you. Our Ohio pregnancy discrimination lawyers can be reached for a FREE consultation at 1-614-949-1181.