If you're newly pregnant, you are undoubtedly excited about this wonderful new chapter in your life. You may also wonder how this might affect your employment. Workplace discrimination laws protect expectant mothers in a range of ways. Use the guide below to understand your rights.

Are You Entitled to Maternity Leave?

The Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) decrees that employers with 50 or more workers must provide unpaid leave to allow parents to care for their newborn or recently adopted child. However, Missouri doesn’t require employers with fewer employees to offer leave.

That said, Missouri’s Human Rights Commission does require employers to offer leave benefits to pregnant women just as they would to employees with temporary disabilities. For example, the recovery period after childbirth or a miscarriage is treated as a temporary disability, allowing you to receive corporate sick leave and benefits from employer-provided short-term disability (STD) insurance. STD insurance pays a portion of your salary for a set period. Discuss this option with your company’s human resources department to find out how long benefits last.

Can You Get Fired for Getting Pregnant?

Employers are not allowed to fire employees due to pregnancy. Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 encompasses the Pregnancy Discrimination Act, PDA. Enacted in 1968, this prohibits workplace discrimination based on past, current, or potential pregnancy.

You also can't be fired for intending to get pregnant or for any health care issues that may arise from pregnancy or childbirth. If you go on FMLA leave, your employer must place you in the same job or provide the same general benefits once you return.

If you think you were a victim of workplace discrimination, consult Henry & Williams P.C. Located in West Plains, MO, this law firm helps clients throughout South Central Missouri fight workplace discrimination. Their attorneys have over 60 years of combined experience and offer dedicated and knowledgeable legal representation. They will make your case in court if needed to protect your rights. Find client testimonials online, or call (417) 256-8133 to schedule a consultation.