Know Your Rights Under The 2015 Illinois Pregnancy Accommodation Law

 

Who is eligible for protection under the Pregnancy law?

The law covers full-time, part-time, probationary workers and applicants. Essentially, if you are pregnant and working or looking for a job, you’re covered!

 

What protections does the Pregnancy law provide?

  1. Employers cannot discriminate against employees based on pregnancy.
  2. Employers must make reasonable accommodations for pregnant workers, such as:
    • Help with manual labor or lifting
    • Providing seating
    • “Light Duty” assignments
    • Extra breaks for bathroom, snacks, water
    • Leave for doctor appointments
    • Leave for complications/bed rest
  1. Employers cannot retaliate against employees for requesting accommodations
  2. Employers may not force changes without a worker’s consent, like moving pregnant women to the back of the house or forcing them to take vacation.

 

If I’m pregnant and want to make sure I’m protected, what should I do?

  1. Talk to a doctor and ask if you will need accommodations at work so you and your baby will be safe.
  2. Tell your employer’s Human Resources department about any accommodations you need – make sure to bring a Shop Steward or coworker with you when you go!
  3. If you think you’re employer is not complying with the law, talk to a Shop Steward or another union representative as soon as possible!

 

For more details, take a look HERE.

During pregnancy and after giving birth, you can also use your rights under FMLA. Click HERE for more information.