Many pregnant workers in the Huntington Beach region worry about how pregnancy may affect their jobs. For example, if the pregnancy requires bed rest or similar work restrictions, the pregnant employee may fear termination.
Fortunately, the law protects pregnant employees in California from termination and other consequences. However, before you can protect yourself with these laws, you must understand how they work. Familiarizing yourself with your rights as a pregnant worker in California can help you learn about these protections.
What are your rights?
Once you inform your employer that you are pregnant, your rights begin. In California, pregnant employees have the right to:
- Pregnancy disability leave (PDL) if and for as long as your pregnancy disables you
- Additional reasonable breaks or rest periods if your pregnancy requires it
- Request a written guarantee that you can return to your job and position after your pregnancy leave ends
- Reasonable accommodations related to your pregnancy (modifying your work schedule, etc.)
- A private place to use when expressing milk, if you are nursing after you return to work
As a pregnant employee, you may also have additional rights. If you are pregnant or expecting a new child, it is wise to familiarize yourself with the state labor code and pregnancy disability leave.
It is also critical to understand that your employer may not fire you for expecting a child. Further, they may not discriminate against you or harass you because of a pregnancy. Finally, employers may not interfere with the rights of a pregnant worker, nor may they attempt to prevent you from exercising these rights.
If you suspect your employer is not treating you fairly after learning of your pregnancy, please consider learning more about employment law in the state of California.