Summary
Pregnancy discrimination is illegal under federal and Maine state law. Employers cannot discriminate based on pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions. The Maine Human Rights Act protects against such discrimination, requiring employers to provide reasonable accommodations. Retaliation for filing a complaint is also illegal. If your wifes employer has cut her hours or plans to terminate her employment due to pregnancy, she may have a strong case for discrimination. Document all incidents, report to HR, and consider filing a complaint with the Maine Human Rights Commission. Include detailed descriptions, dates, and any evidence or witness statements.Full Conversation
My wife is being discriminated for being pregnant at work.
Hi ****! Pregnancy discrimination is illegal under federal law (Pregnancy Discrimination Act) and the laws of many states.
- Employers cannot discriminate based on pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions.
- Your wife is entitled to reasonable accommodations if needed.
What state is she working in? This will help determine the specific laws that apply.
Maine
Hi ****! In Maine, pregnancy discrimination is prohibited under both federal and state law. Here’s some relevant information:
- The Maine Human Rights Act protects against pregnancy discrimination.
- Employers must provide reasonable accommodations.
- Retaliation for filing a complaint is illegal.
Has she reported the discrimination to her HR department or considered filing a complaint with the Maine Human Rights Commission?
We havent done anything yet. Her employer has cut her hours and is going to terminate employment at the end of he month * weeks before her set maternity leave date
****, it sounds like your wife may have a strong case for pregnancy discrimination. Here are some steps you can consider:
- Document Everything: Keep records of any communications and actions taken by her employer.
- Report to HR: File a formal complaint with her HR department.
- File a Complaint: Consider filing a complaint with the Maine Human Rights Commission.
Would you like to know how to file a complaint with the Maine Human Rights Commission?
Yes
To file a complaint with the Maine Human Rights Commission:
~Maine Human Rights Commission
Phone: (*) *-*
Address: * State House Station, Augusta, ME *-*
Website: www.maine.gov/mhrc
Would you like more information on what to include in the complaint or guidance on the process?
Yes
****, when filing a complaint with the Maine Human Rights Commission, you should include:
- Detailed description of the discrimination incidents.
- Dates and times of discriminatory actions.
- Copies of relevant documents (emails, letters, etc.).
- Witnesses, if any.
Would you like guidance on any specific part of the complaint process?
Nothing has been in writing how would we document the issues
If nothing has been documented in writing, here are some steps for documenting the issues:
- Create a timeline: Write down all incidents, including dates, times, and details of what happened.
- Gather any evidence: Emails, texts, or other communications, even if informal.
- Witness statements: Ask colleagues who witnessed the discrimination to provide written statements.
- Summary of conversations: Document verbal conversations with dates, participants, and content.
Would you like more details on gathering witness statements?
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