Pregnancy Discrimination: A Hidden Threat in New Jersey Workplaces

For many women, pregnancy should be a time of joy and anticipation—not a trigger for employment concerns. Unfortunately, pregnancy discrimination remains a reality in many workplaces across New Jersey. Too often, expectant mothers and new parents are faced with unfair treatment, unlawful terminations, or denied accommodations simply because they are starting or growing a family.

Pregnancy discrimination occurs when an employer treats an employee or job applicant unfavorably because of pregnancy, childbirth, or a related medical condition. It is illegal under both federal and New Jersey law. Yet despite these protections, far too many women find their careers derailed due to biases and outdated perceptions around pregnancy and parenting.

Legal Protections Against Pregnancy Discrimination

Federal law—through the Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA)—requires that pregnant workers be treated the same as others who are similar in their ability or inability to work. Meanwhile, the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (NJLAD) offers even broader protections. Under NJLAD, employers must provide reasonable accommodations for pregnancy and related conditions, such as more frequent breaks, modified work schedules, or temporary transfers to less strenuous duties.

In addition, the New Jersey Family Leave Act (NJFLA) and federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) provide job-protected leave for bonding with a newborn or recovering from childbirth. When these protections are ignored, employers may face serious legal consequences.

Common Examples of Pregnancy Discrimination

Discrimination can come in many forms, both overt and subtle. Some common examples include:

• Refusing to hire or promote a qualified employee because she is pregnant
• Terminating an employee shortly after she announces her pregnancy
• Failing to provide reasonable accommodations recommended by a doctor
• Making disparaging comments or jokes about pregnancy in the workplace
• Pressuring an employee to take unpaid leave or resign

Each of these scenarios violates state and/or federal law. If you’ve experienced any of the above, you may have a legal claim against your employer.

Why This Issue Deserves More Attention

Pregnancy discrimination not only undermines gender equality in the workplace—it can also inflict serious financial and emotional harm on expectant mothers and families. These unlawful actions disrupt careers, cut off critical income, and contribute to a culture of fear and silence. As more women become primary earners in their households, the stakes for combating this form of discrimination have never been higher.

Combating pregnancy discrimination requires both awareness and legal action. When victims speak up and pursue justice, it sends a message to employers that discriminatory practices will not be tolerated in New Jersey.

Get Help from Trusted Employment Attorneys

At NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC, we are dedicated to protecting the rights of pregnant workers and ensuring that they are treated fairly and lawfully. Our attorneys understand how challenging it can be to face discrimination during such a personal and vulnerable time. We offer the support, strategy, and legal strength you need to fight back.

Whether you’ve been laid off, denied accommodations, or experienced harassment related to your pregnancy, our team can assess your case and guide you through your legal options.

To learn more about how we protect pregnant workers in Atlantic County and beyond, visit our dedicated page on
Atlantic County pregnancy discrimination.

Let Us Advocate for You

Pregnancy should not jeopardize your career or financial stability. If you suspect you’ve been the target of pregnancy discrimination, take action today. NJ Employment Lawyers, LLC will work diligently to protect your rights and hold employers accountable.