According to the EEOC, complaints of pregnancy discrimination rose from 3,977 filings in 1997 to 6,285 in 2008. That is a shocking statistic. While these numbers may be influenced by a number of factors, the truth is that pregnancy can complicate an employment relationship.
Oregon law prohibits discrimination in employment because of sex. Under statute, “the phrase ‘because of sex’ includes, but is not limited to, because of pregnancy, childbirth and related medical conditions or occurrences.”
Likewise, under federal law, discrimination on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions constitutes unlawful sex discrimination under Title VII, which covers employers with 15 or more employees, including state and local governments. Title VII also applies to employment agencies and to labor organizations, as well as to the federal government. Women who are pregnant or affected by pregnancy-related conditions must be treated in the same manner as other applicants or employees with similar abilities or limitations.
