The Customs and Border Protection agency has agreed to a $45 million settlement in a class action lawsuit involving nearly 1,100 women who alleged discrimination against pregnant employees. The settlement also includes reforms to address the discriminatory practices within the agency.
The case, filed in 2016 with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, accused CBP of routinely placing pregnant officers and agriculture specialists on light duty without providing them the option to continue in their roles with or without accommodations. This practice resulted in these women missing out on overtime, Sunday or evening pay, and opportunities for advancement.
The lead plaintiff in the case, expressing her disappointment, highlighted how the news of her pregnancy was met with assumptions that she could no longer effectively perform her job solely because she was pregnant.
CBP had previously denied any standard policy of placing pregnant women on light duty assignments, suggesting that any misunderstandings were isolated incidents rather than a widespread agency policy. However, a judge's ruling last year certified the case as a class action, indicating a need for further investigation.
Under the terms of the settlement, there will now be a presumption that pregnant employees can fulfill their job responsibilities, with the agency required to make reasonable accommodations such as ensuring uniforms are available for pregnant women. Additionally, there will be training sessions on the implementation of the light duty policy and a three-year enforcement period to address any persisting issues.
The settlement agreement is pending final approval by a judge, with the affected women having the opportunity to review and raise objections. The lawyers representing the employees expressed optimism that the agreement would be accepted, noting that it not only benefits the current class action members but also aims to prevent similar issues for future pregnant employees.
The resolution of this case marks a significant step towards addressing pregnancy discrimination within CBP and ensuring a more inclusive and supportive work environment for all employees.
