Amazon faces allegations in a lawsuit regarding systematic discrimination against pregnant employees

Amazon.com on Tuesday faced a proposed class action lawsuit alleging that the retailer has been systematically discriminating against pregnant workers.

According to a complaint filed in the Brooklyn, New York, federal court, Amazon regularly breaches federal and New York worker protection laws by denying pregnant workers essential accommodations such as chairs, bathroom and water breaks, and time off for prenatal appointments.


The lawsuit filed by four former warehouse employees contests the alleged practices of the Seattle-based company, which purportedly threaten and "regularly" terminate pregnant employees who take extended leave, as well as require medical documentation from those seeking accommodations. "Amazon violates the law in every instance," the complaint stated.

The lawsuit seeks damages that encompass lost pay and benefits, in addition to punitive damages.
Amazon did not provide an immediate response to a request for comment.