The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission filed a lawsuit Tuesday against a Jacksonville, Florida, poker room, alleging BestBet violated the Pregnant Workers’ Fairness Act by refusing reasonable accommodations to pregnant employees. One worker faced low blood pressure causing dizziness and fainting, plus a subchorionic hematoma that raised risks of pregnancy loss; her doctor's note requested two and a half weeks off, but the company denied the leave and blocked her return. The complaint describes a pattern affecting multiple female employees denied support for pregnancy or childbirth-related needs.
Core Allegations in the Case
The charging party informed human resources of her conditions and submitted medical documentation, yet BestBet rejected her requested time off. Upon attempting to resume work, she encountered further denial of reentry. EEOC attorneys claim this reflects systemic failure, impacting a class of similarly situated women who sought adjustments for limitations tied to pregnancy or postpartum recovery.
PWFA Requirements for Employers
Enacted to protect workers from pregnancy-related medical limitations, the Pregnant Workers’ Fairness Act mandates reasonable accommodations absent undue hardship, much like provisions under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Kristen Foslid, regional attorney for the EEOC Miami District Office, emphasized that employers must engage in interactive discussions with employees rather than outright refusals. Such dialogue identifies feasible solutions, from temporary leave to modified duties, ensuring pregnant workers remain employed without health risks.
Pattern of EEOC Enforcement
This suit follows other resolutions this year, including a California staffing agency's $185,000 settlement for terminating pregnant workers since 2019. In February, an Oklahoma urological clinic settled claims of violating both the PWFA and ADA by denying sitting breaks, imposing unpaid leave, and blocking breastfeeding accommodations for a high-risk pregnancy medical assistant. BestBet has not responded to requests for comment. These actions signal growing scrutiny on workplace policies affecting pregnancy, urging businesses to review compliance amid rising claims.