On May 21, 2015, Governor Rick Scott signed Bill 982 into a law, making it unlawful for employers to discriminate against individuals on the basis of pregnancy. Effective July 1, 2015, employers cannot discharge, refuse to hire, or otherwise discriminate against any individual with respect to compensation, terms, conditions, or privileges of employment, because of the individual’s pregnancy. Employers are also banned from limiting, segregating, or classifying employees or prospective employees in any way that will deprive them of employment opportunities because of their pregnancy.
Also under the new law, individuals cannot be denied public accommodations on the basis of pregnancy. Individuals can file a complaint at the Florida Commission on Human Relations if she believes her rights have been violated, but must file within one year of the alleged violation.
Employers covered under the Florida Statutes must post the Florida Law Prohibits Discrimination posting in a conspicuous place. The updated list of protective classes, including the new category has been incorporated onto Florida’s All-On-OneTM Labor Law Poster. The Florida Discrimination Peel ‘N PostTM has also been created as an additional option to stay compliant.