Federal legislation designed to protect pregnant women from workplace discrimination has been approved by the U.S. House. Congressman Fred Upton tells WSJM News Pregnant Workers Fairness Act is closely modeled after the Americans with Disabilities Act.
“It would make businesses liable if, in fact, they discriminate against someone that’s pregnant,” Upton said. “It sets a pretty good standard, and it better not happen. We’ll make it against the law, which is why when you look at it, it had strong bipartisan support.”
The bill requires employers to make reasonable accommodations, like minor job modifications, that would allow pregnant workers to continue working. It also prohibits employers from denying employment opportunities to women based on their need for reasonable accommodations related to pregnancy. Upton says the legislation has the backing of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, among many others. The House approved it last week, 329 to 73.
