Pregnancy Discrimination

Facts about Pregnancy Discrimination

Under the Pregnancy Discrimination Act (an amendment to Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964), an employer may not discriminate on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions. Any discrimination on the basis of pregnancy or related medical conditions constitutes unlawful sex discrimination under Title VII and Chapter 21, Texas Labor Code.

A pregnant employee must be permitted to work as long as they are able to perform their job. Further, an employer may not treat a pregnant employee any differently, pass them over for a promotion or advancement or withhold work assignments because they are pregnant. Employers must also hold open a job for a pregnancy-related absence the same length of time jobs are held open for employees on sick or disability leave.

An employer may not refuse to hire a woman because she is pregnant as long as she can perform the major functions of her job. Further, an employer may not refuse to hire a pregnant woman because of its prejudices against pregnant workers.

Pregnant employees must be permitted to work as long as they able to perform their jobs. If an employee is temporarily unable to perform her job due to pregnancy, the employer must treat her the same as any other temporarily disabled employee.  For example, the employer may provide modified tasks, alternative assignments, disability leave or leave without pay.  Employers must also hold open a job for a pregnancy related absence the same length of time jobs are held open for employees on sick or disability leave. 

Pregnancy related expenses should be reimbursed exactly as those incurred for other medical conditions.  Health insurance provided by an employer must cover pregnancy health care costs on the same basis as costs for other medical conditions.  No additional, increased or larger deductible can be imposed.  Further, the amount payable by the health insurance provider can be limited only to the same extent as costs for other conditions.

Pregnancy Discrimination Claims

The attorneys at the Allen Law Firm have experience handling Pregnancy Discrimination claims on behalf of women in Texas. 

If you believe your employer has illegally discriminated against you because you are or were pregnant, contact our office by filling out the form on this page for a free case evaluation.  A lawyer from our firm will call you as soon as possible to help you determine the possibility of filing a potential claim. 

Or call 1.888.345.5291 to speak with an attorney about your case.  The initial consultation is free of charge.