View Full Version : Can I get fired for being pregnant?
catherinemarie
Oct 23, 2008, 12:54 PM
Hi, I am 3 months pregnant (not showing at all)and just started a new job at jcpennys last week. I didn't tell them I was pregnant as they did not ask. When do I have to tell them? Do I have to tell them I was pregnant when they hired me? Can they cut my hours or fire me for being pregnant? Also do I get materity leave? I live in New York state.
jkh
Oct 23, 2008, 01:01 PM
Congrats! I am also 3 months pregnant..
To answer your question no you can not get fired, here's a website with some helpful info
Questions and Answers About Pregnancy and Work (http://www.larcc.org/pamphlets/benefits_work/pregnancy_and_work.htm)
Good luck!
catherinemarie
Oct 23, 2008, 01:17 PM
Does this count even if you just got hired? I read somewhere that you have to be employed for 12 months or 1250 hours?
xoxaprilwine
Oct 25, 2008, 08:20 PM
I went through the same thing!! I started a job in June and in August found out I conceived in May! I told them after my probation was over and there is nothing they can do about it. You are protected by the legislation against discrimination... I think the link jkh provided would be helpful. Also if you have hours (1250) banked in regardless if you where working for the same employer or not; you would go through the employment insurance the government provides (whatever that is in the US). The company may only pay you so much but if you banked the hours (1250) regardless if you where not employed for 12 consecutive months you are entitled to your parental and maternity leave. Wow 1250! In Canada its 600? Do you have the hours?
Another thing... don't worry about the job, it won't be there when you get back and you may not be entitled to benefits when you are on leave but there is plenty of opportunity after. If you haven't been employed with them for 12 consecutive months they don't have to guarantee your job. No worries though... you have a baby on the way and take care of yourself.
Congratulations!! (Though I know your stressed... trust that it will all work itself out)