Pregnancy should not force you to choose between your health and your career. Federal and Washington state laws protect pregnant employees from discrimination and require many employers to provide reasonable accommodations that allow them to continue working safely. If you are pregnant and employed in Washington, understanding your legal rights can help you respond if workplace issues arise.
Protection from pregnancy discrimination
Employers cannot make employment decisions based on pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions. They generally cannot refuse to hire you, terminate your employment, reduce your hours, or deny promotions simply because you are pregnant. Pregnancy discrimination may include:
- Refusing to provide reasonable accommodations required by law
- Treating you differently than other employees with similar work limitations
- Retaliating against you for requesting workplace accommodations
- Taking adverse employment actions because of your pregnancy or childbirth
If an employer violates these protections, you may have legal options to pursue a claim.
Your right to reasonable accommodations
Washington law requires many employers to provide reasonable accommodations for pregnancy-related needs unless doing so would create an undue hardship in certain circumstances. Depending on your situation, accommodations may include:
- More frequent or longer restroom breaks
- Additional break time, including time to express breast milk
- Modified work schedules
- Temporary lifting restrictions
- Seating for jobs that normally require standing
- Temporary job restructuring or reassignment when appropriate
The accommodations available will depend on your job duties and your medical needs.
Family and medical leave may also apply
Many employees also qualify for protected leave under state or federal law. Depending on your eligibility, you may have the right to take leave for pregnancy, childbirth, recovery, or bonding with your child while protecting your job.
Because eligibility requirements vary, understanding which laws apply to your circumstances is important before making leave decisions.
What should you do if your employer violates your rights?
If you believe your employer has discriminated against you because of your pregnancy or refused to provide legally required accommodations, keep records of your communications, employment documents, and any actions your employer has taken.
You should also document requests for accommodations and your employer’s responses. These records can become valuable evidence if a dispute arises.
Why legal guidance matters
Pregnancy discrimination and accommodation laws can involve both state and federal protections. An experienced Washington employment attorney can evaluate your situation, explain your legal rights, and help you pursue appropriate remedies if your employer violated the law.
If you believe your employer has denied your workplace rights during pregnancy, a Washington employment attorney can help you protect your interests and determine the best course of action.