Harrisburg – The Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission ordered Lem Moore Transportation, of Douglassville, Berks County, to pay more than $10,466 to former driver Heather Parsons, of Reading, Berks County, for discriminating against her because of her pregnancy. The order took effect Feb. 24.
Parsons filed a discrimination complaint alleging that the company laid her off because she was pregnant, then failed to reinstate her. The commission held a public hearing after an investigation found sufficient information to support her allegations and the parties were not willing to settle.
The commission’s order found in favor of Parson’s claim that her layoff was discriminatory, but that the employer had nondiscriminatory reasons for not reinstating her.
“Women in Pennsylvania have a legal right to be free from discrimination when they become pregnant,” Executive Director JoAnn Edwards said. “Pregnancy discrimination harms families and robs our economy of skilled workers.
“There is no place for pregnancy discrimination in Pennsylvania.”
The commission ordered the company to cease discriminating against employees based on pregnancy, and to pay Parsons $100 for expenses and $8,360, plus interest, for lost pay. To date, the interest brings the award to more than $10,466.
The company has 30 days to report to the commission on how it will comply with the order.
Learn more about pregnancy discrimination, employee rights and employer responsibilities at
www.phrc.state.pa.us.
MEDIA CONTACT: Toni Crawford, 717-783-8266