Indeed, the February jobs report suggests that the national economy is headed in the right direction. With more than 220,000 jobs added in February, it is expected that the job market will increase as spring takes hold. This arguably means that more people will be entering the job market, and more people will be taking part-time jobs.
For pregnant employees, this is promising news; but as we have noted in prior posts, discrimination against women still exists and pregnant women may be coerced into performing tasks that violate their legal rights. With that, this post will provide some helpful tips for pregnant employees and job seekers.
Know what laws apply – While you may know generally that federal anti-discrimination laws may exist, it is helpful to know how they apply to pregnant women. For example, you should know about Title VII and how it prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex and the Family Medical Leave Act and how it allows for time off for pregnancy-related issues.
Don’t be afraid to speak up – The aches and pains that come with pregnancy cannot be ignored, as they can signal issues that may require additional rest and time away from work. Indeed, it is important for new employees to make a good impression, but it is also essential to protect the health of an unborn child.
Seek the advice of an attorney – Before taking action, it is helpful to understand your options, and how you should approach an employer with your concerns. If you have questions about what steps you should take before initiating a lawsuit, an experienced employment law attorney can help.