Are employers obligated to provide job protection for employees on maternity leave?

Yes, employers in Maryland are obligated to provide job protection for employees on maternity leave. According to the Maryland Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), employers must provide up to 12 weeks of job-protected unpaid leave for employees who need to take care of a new baby or a family member with a serious health condition. The employee on leave must be given the right to return to their same job or an equivalent job with the same pay, benefits, and other job conditions. Additionally, the Maryland Fair Employment Practices Act (FEPA) requires employers to provide job protection to employees on maternity leave. The law states that employers are legally prohibited from discriminating against employees based on their pregnancy or any other protected characteristic. This means employers cannot punish pregnant employees by denying them promotions or privileges available to other employees. If an employer does not provide job protection for an employee on maternity leave they may be subject to legal action. Employees who believe they have been discriminated against can file a complaint with the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights. If the complaint is found to be legitimate, the employee may be awarded damages.

Related FAQs

Can employers require employees to work overtime?
Can employers require employees to take mandatory training?
What is the equal pay act?
What are the requirements for paying employee expenses?
What is the process for filing a discrimination claim?
What are the rights of workers under labor laws?
Are employers obligated to offer leave for religious observances?
What is the whistleblower protection law?
What types of discrimination are prohibited?
Are employers required to provide employee health benefits?

Related Blog Posts

What Employers Should Know about Labor Laws: An Overview for HR Departments - July 31, 2023
Navigating California's Evolving Labor and Employment Laws - August 7, 2023
Employers: Get to Know the National Labor Relations Act - August 14, 2023
A Guide to Understanding Wage and Hour Laws - August 21, 2023
Exploring the Basics of Employment Discrimination Laws - August 28, 2023