The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission filed a lawsuit on behalf of a woman subject to pregnancy discrimination. The federal court found for the woman and awarded her $75,000 in back pay and damages.
The woman’s employer, United Bible Fellowship Ministries, Inc., provided housing to people with disabilities. United Bible had a “no pregnancy in the workplace” policy which prohibited the continued employment of an employee who became pregnant. They also refused to hire anyone who was pregnant.
United Bible said the policy was intended to ensure the safety of the employee and her unborn child.
The employer admitted that the woman performed her job well and had no medical restrictions that would impede her ability to carry out her job functions.
The EEOC filed suit in Texas federal court on behalf of the pregnant employee arguing that the conduct violated Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The court held that United Bible recklessly failed to comply with Title VII. The woman was awarded backpay and overtime with interest, out-of-pocket costs, and damages for emotional pain and suffering. This case reinforces that all employers, even not-for-profit employers, are required to ensure equal access to job opportunities for all.
