Massachusetts Pregnancy Discrimination Laws: Workplace Rights

Quick Answer: Chapter 151B prohibits pregnancy discrimination at employers with 6+ employees. The Massachusetts Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (MPWFA) requires reasonable accommodations. Massachusetts also has Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) for maternity leave with pay. File with MCAD within 300 days.

Massachusetts provides comprehensive pregnancy protections.

Massachusetts Pregnancy Protections

Chapter 151B

Protects:

• Pregnancy
• Childbirth
• Related conditions

Applies to:

• 6+ employee employers

Pregnant Workers Fairness Act

Massachusetts PWFA:

• Reasonable accommodations required
• For pregnancy-related conditions
• Strong protection

PFML for Maternity

Provides:

• Paid leave for bonding
• Up to 12 weeks family leave
• Job protection

Accommodation Rights

MPWFA

Employers must:

• Provide reasonable accommodations
• For pregnancy limitations
• Unless undue hardship

Common Accommodations

Examples:

• More frequent breaks
• Seating
• Modified schedule
• Light duty
• Time off for appointments

What's Prohibited

Hiring

Cannot:

• Refuse hire due to pregnancy
• Ask about pregnancy plans
• Consider pregnancy status

Workplace Treatment

Cannot:

• Fire for pregnancy
• Demote pregnant workers
• Force early leave

Filing Complaints

MCAD (State)

Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination:

• Phone: 617-994-6000
• Deadline: 300 days

EEOC (Federal)

Also available:

• Phone: 617-565-3200

Common Scenarios

Scenario 1: Accommodation Denied

Situation: Asked for light duty, denied.

Analysis: MPWFA requires accommodations.

Scenario 2: Fired After Announcement

Situation: Terminated after disclosing pregnancy.

Analysis: Discrimination. File MCAD complaint.

Scenario 3: Maternity Leave

Situation: Need paid time off for new baby.

Analysis: PFML provides paid leave up to 12 weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pregnancy discrimination illegal?

Yes. Protected under Chapter 151B.

Must employer accommodate?

Yes under MPWFA. Reasonable accommodations required.

Is maternity leave paid?

Yes. PFML provides partial wage replacement.

Related Topics

• Massachusetts Workplace Discrimination
• Massachusetts PFML Guide
• Massachusetts Employment Law Hub

Take Action

If facing pregnancy discrimination:

1. Document incidents
2. Request accommodations in writing
3. Note 300-day deadline
4. Know PFML rights
5. Consult attorney

Legal Disclaimer

This article provides general information about pregnancy discrimination in Massachusetts and is not legal advice. For specific advice, consult a licensed Massachusetts employment attorney.

For official information:

• MCAD: https://www.mass.gov/orgs/mcad | 617-994-6000
• DFML: https://www.mass.gov/pfml | 833-344-7365