Under the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) and the Pregnancy Disability Leave (PDL) law, eligible employees are entitled to reasonable accommodations for conditions related to pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions.
At the Leichter Law Firm, APC, the Los Angeles employment law attorney Aryeh Leichter represents women throughout the state whose pregnancy protections are being violated by their employers.
If your California employer refuses to provide reasonable accommodations during your pregnancy, you must act quickly to protect your rights under the law.
Here’s what you should do if your employer denies your request.
Steps to Take if Your California Employer Denies Pregnancy-Related Accommodations
Taking a stand against a California employer that refuses to provide reasonable accommodations during pregnancy is essential to protect not only your rights but also the health and well-being of yourself and your unborn child.
- Document Your Requests:Keep detailed records of your accommodation requests, including the date of the request, who you spoke to, and their response. Having written documentation is essential if you need to pursue legal action later.
- Provide Medical Documentation:Ensure you have provided your employer with any necessary documentation from your healthcare provider. This documentation should clearly outline the accommodations needed, such as modified work duties, more frequent breaks, or time off for prenatal appointments.
- Request an Explanation in Writing:If your employer refuses your accommodation request, ask for a written explanation. This can clarify their decision and reveal whether they are violating your rights.
- File a Complaint with Human Resources:If you haven’t already done so, report the issue to your company’s Human Resources department. Make sure to outline your request and how the denial impacts your ability to work safely.
- File a Complaint with the California Civil Rights Department (CRD): If your employer refuses your request, you can file a complaint with the CRD. This state agency handles pregnancy discrimination and accommodation violations and can investigate your claim.
Contact Our Disability Discrimination Attorney in Los Angeles
If the issue is unresolved through internal processes or a CRD complaint, contact Aryeh Leichter, the Leichter Law Firm, APC founder, and employment law attorney in Los Angeles County, today to discuss the legal remedies that may be available for your unique circumstances, starting with a free consultation by calling 818-915-6624 or contacting the firm online.
Standing up for your rights is crucial for your health and well-being and establishing a safer and more supportive workplace for other employees in similar situations.