Just told my boss

cheekyj2002

I just told my new boss that I'm pregnant.  While he eventually congratulated me, his first reaction was shock and concern over how to cover my workload once the baby is born in July. He talked about how hard it was for him without help, etc.

I didn't ever intend to take on a new job while pregnant, but was pressured into accepting this position because layoffs are impending over the next weeks and they were trying to 'save' workers by moving us around. I also didn't want to share my news until 1st trimester was over.

What are my rights?  Can they give my job away? Can they encourage me to move on?

Thanks for any advice.  I don't even know what advice I'm seeking.  I just feel worried about the stability of my position given boss' reaction.

 
J
 

 

ChaoticSunshine

cheekyj2002:

I just told my new boss that I'm pregnant.  While he eventually congratulated me, his first reaction was shock and concern over how to cover my workload once the baby is born in July. He talked about how hard it was for him without help, etc.

I didn't ever intend to take on a new job while pregnant, but was pressured into accepting this position because layoffs are impending over the next weeks and they were trying to 'save' workers by moving us around. I also didn't want to share my news until 1st trimester was over.

What are my rights?  Can they give my job away? Can they encourage me to move on?

Thanks for any advice.  I don't even know what advice I'm seeking.  I just feel worried about the stability of my position given boss' reaction.

J
 

They can't do anything until you take a leave. Assuming they are big enough to fall under FMLA than they have to hold employment for you. They don't have to hold your specific position but a position of equal pay and duty. They can encourage you to move on but you don't have to.

You have a lot of rights. Find your states website and find out what the local statues are.

14years

I'm sorry you got a negative reaction.  You have at least two issues -- pregnancy discrimination and leave-related job protection.  How big is your company?  Federal laws apply to some employers but not others based on size.  Also, what state are you in?  I think different states have different laws about pregnancy and job protection.

You may want to call an employment lawyer in your state and ask what specific protections you have.  You could also check out at your secretary of state or attorney general's web site.  They usually have the basics.