A Walgreens employee from Louisiana noticed signs of potential complications with her pregnancy and immediately sought permission to visit her doctor in December 2020. However, her supervisor denied her request, insisted on the absence of a suitable replacement, and critiqued the woman for purportedly seeking excessive accommodations.
RELATED STORIES: Ohio Grand Jury Clears Woman in Miscarriage Case
The refusal by her superior compelled Jane Doe to resign instantly to prioritize her health, following her doctor’s recommendations. Tragically, she miscarried on the same day. After the incident, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission took legal action against Walgreens, accusing the retail giant of violating the Civil Rights Act and the Americans With Disabilities Act. The lawsuit, aimed at addressing the alleged failure to provide necessary emergency medical care to Doe, who was also dealing with diabetes and hypoglycemia, led to Walgreens agreeing to a $205,000 settlement to resolve the dispute. This lawsuit was detailed in an 11-page complaint lodged in the U.S. District Court for Western Louisiana, as reported by The Washington Post.
As part of a legal settlement, Walgreens has agreed to several policy and procedure changes. The settlement includes a financial payment and a two-year decree that requires the company to implement extensive training programs in ten cities. The training programs will focus on preventing pregnancy-related discrimination, ensuring reasonable accommodations, and providing anti-discrimination policies for employees and supervisors. Additionally, Walgreens will report any complaints related to pregnancy and disability to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, as part of their efforts to enhance workplace practices and prevent similar incidents in the future.
RELATED STORIES: Ohio Woman Who Miscarried Baby Now Faces Criminal Charge Accusing Her Of Abusing Corpse
Despite the settlement, Walgreens has publicly denied the allegations made by the EEOC. The company has expressed its commitment to a discrimination-free workplace, emphasizing the importance of a supportive and inclusive environment for all employees.
The legal battle and its outcome underscore the critical need for employers to adhere to laws protecting workers’ rights, especially concerning health and pregnancy. Elizabeth Owen, representing the EEOC, emphasized the devastating impact of miscarriages and the importance of ensuring employees do not have to choose between their job and essential medical care. This case serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by pregnant employees and the imperative for companies to foster safe, accommodating workplaces.