What are my rights as a pregnant woman at work?

As long as a pregnant woman is able to perform the major functions of her job, not hiring or firing her because she is pregnant is against the law. It’s against the law to dock her pay or demote her to a lesser position because of pregnancy. Women are protected under the Pregnancy Discrimination Act.

Can you be fired for being pregnant in VA?

Similar to federal law, the Virginia Human Rights Act has long prohibited terminating employees on the basis of pregnancy and “childbirth or related medical conditions.” The new law, effective July 1, 2020, creates a private cause of action prohibiting broader discrimination related to these conditions and requires …

What does the Pregnancy Discrimination Act cover?

The Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA) forbids discrimination based on pregnancy when it comes to any aspect of employment, including hiring, firing, pay, job assignments, promotions, layoff, training, fringe benefits, such as leave and health insurance, and any other term or condition of employment.

Can I reduce my hours at work when pregnant?

Can I ask my employer to reduce my hours if I feel tired because of pregnancy? Yes, you can ask your employer if you can reduce your hours on a temporary basis but it will mean a reduction in your pay and this may affect your maternity pay.

What is Virginia law on maternity leave?

Following the birth, adoption, or foster placement of a child younger than age 18, an eligible employee shall receive eight weeks (320 hours) of parental leave. If both parents of such child are eligible employees, each shall receive parental leave, which may be taken concurrently, consecutively, or at different times.

What is Virginia pregnancy accommodation?

Virginia’s 2020 Pregnancy Accommodation Law Under a law that took effect on July 1, 2020, Virginia employers with at least five employees must make reasonable accommodations to known limitations related to pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, in the absence of undue hardship.

How many hours should a pregnant woman work on her feet?

Women who stood for four to six hours a day increased the risk of prematurity by 80 percent compared to women who stood for less than four hours. Standing for more than six hours tripled the risk.

What are the maternity and pregnancy laws in Virginia?

Virginia Maternity and Pregnancy: What you need to know. The Virginia Human Rights Act prohibits employers with more than 5 but fewer than 15 employees from discharging an employee on the basis of sex, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions (including lactation) (VA Code Sec. 2.2-3900A et seq.

What kind of Rights do pregnant women have at work?

If you are pregnant, have been pregnant, or may become pregnant, and if your employer has 15 or more employees, you are protected against pregnancy-based discrimination and harassment at work under federal law.

How to deal with stress at work during pregnancy?

It’s common to feel tired during your pregnancy. If you don’t want to be too exhausted at your work, make sure that you are getting enough sleep at night to feel energized for your day. Also, be sure to eat well. Stress can deplete vitamins quickly so having a balanced diet is important.

Can a employer treat you worse if you are pregnant?

The PDA says that your employer cannot treat you worse than other employees because you are pregnant or have a condition related to pregnancy. Thus, if your employer is providing accommodations to other employees similar in their ability or inability to work they may have to provide you with an accommodation.