An employer refusing to hire a qualified applicant after learning she’s pregnant

Asking illegal interview questions like, “Are you planning to take time off soon?” or “How far along are you?”

Rescinding a job offer after finding out about a pregnancy

Skipping over a candidate for a promotion or project due to assumptions about maternity leave

Employers cannot treat a job applicant less favorably because she is pregnant or may become pregnant.

They cannot make hiring decisions based on assumptions about how pregnancy or parental responsibilities will affect someone’s ability to work.

If the employer offers accommodations to other workers with medical conditions, they must offer the same to pregnant employees — this includes temporary schedule changes, lighter duties, or time off.

Signs You May Have Been Discriminated Against

You were highly qualified for the position, interviewed well, and received positive feedback — then suddenly rejected after mentioning your pregnancy.

The employer asked inappropriate or overly personal questions about your family, childcare plans, or medical needs.

You were offered the job, then the offer was pulled after a medical form or background check revealed your pregnancy.

The hiring manager made comments or jokes that hinted at stereotypes — like “we need someone who won’t be out for months.”

You were passed over while someone with less experience or qualifications was chosen.

“Are you pregnant or planning to be?”

“Will you need time off for maternity leave soon?”

“Do you have someone to take care of the baby while you’re at work?”

“How will you handle your duties while expecting?”

What to Do If You Suspect Pregnancy Discrimination

Worried You Were Denied a Job Because of Pregnancy?

Can an Employer Refuse to Hire You Because You’re Pregnant?

Firing or demoting an employee after they announce a pregnancy

Refusing to hire someone because they’re visibly pregnant

Denying reasonable accommodations for medical needs

Cutting hours, changing responsibilities, or isolating the employee

Penalizing someone for taking pregnancy or family leave

Making negative comments about pregnancy or parenting status

What The Law Says About Workplace Pregnancy Rights New Jersey&nbsp;

1. The New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (NJLAD)

Temporary transfers away from hazardous environments

Seating, schedule changes, or permission to carry water

2. The Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA)

3. The New Jersey Family Leave Act (NJFLA)

Fire or demote you because you’re pregnant

Refuse to hire you because you may become pregnant

Deny reasonable accommodations with a doctor’s note

Harass you or make offensive remarks about your pregnancy

Force you to take leave if you’re able and willing to work

Penalize you for taking legally protected time off

Ask for medical documentation when you request accommodations

Deny accommodations that would cause “undue hardship” (like significant cost or workplace disruption)

Treat pregnancy the same as any other short-term disability, applying existing leave policies fairly

Set work expectations and standards — as long as they’re applied equally to all employees

2. Speak Up Internally (If You Feel Safe Doing So)

3. Reach Out to a Pregnancy Discrimination Lawyer in New Jersey

Facing Pregnancy Discrimination? We Can Help.

Employment Law Insights & Resources

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