Virginia Pregnancy Discrimination Laws: Workplace Rights

Quick Answer: The Virginia Human Rights Act (VHRA) prohibits pregnancy discrimination as sex discrimination at employers with 5+ employees. The federal Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA) requires reasonable accommodations. Virginia allows uncapped damages. File within 300 days.

Virginia protects pregnant workers from discrimination.

Virginia Pregnancy Protections

VHRA Coverage

Protects:

• Pregnancy
• Childbirth
• Related conditions

Applies to:

• 5+ employee employers
• As sex discrimination

Federal Laws

Also provide:

• Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA)
• Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA)
• 15+ employees

Accommodation Rights

PWFA (Federal)

Employers must:

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

Common Accommodations

Examples:

• More frequent breaks
• Modified schedule
• Seating
• 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

EEOC

Options:

• Phone: 1-800-669-4000
• Richmond: 804-771-2200
• 300-day deadline

Virginia DOLI

Office of Civil Rights:

• Phone: 804-225-2292

Common Scenarios

Scenario 1: Fired After Announcement

Situation: Terminated after disclosing pregnancy.

Analysis: Timing suggests discrimination. Document and file.

Scenario 2: Accommodation Denied

Situation: Asked for light duty, denied.

Analysis: PWFA requires accommodations.

Scenario 3: Small Employer

Situation: Work for 8-person company, facing discrimination.

Analysis: VHRA covers 5+ employees. Protected.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pregnancy discrimination illegal?

Yes. Protected as sex discrimination under VHRA.

Must employer accommodate?

Yes under federal PWFA. Reasonable accommodations required.

What damages available?

VHRA allows uncapped damages.

Related Topics

• Virginia Workplace Discrimination
• Virginia FMLA Guide
• Virginia Employment Law Hub

Take Action

If facing pregnancy discrimination:

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

Legal Disclaimer

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

For official information:

• Virginia DOLI: https://www.doli.virginia.gov | 804-225-2292
• EEOC Richmond: 804-771-2200