In 1978, the Pregnancy Discrimination Act fundamentally changed workplace rights for millions of American women. Before this landmark legislation, employers could legally fire or refuse to hire pregnant women, deny them health insurance coverage, and force them to take unpaid leave. This episode of Signed Into Law explores how the PDA amended Title VII of the Civil Rights Act to prohibit sex discrimination on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions—establishing that pregnancy must be treated the same as any other temporary medical condition.

Discover the Supreme Court case that sparked outrage, the coalition that fought for change, and how this law reshaped American workplaces forever. Part of the Signed Into Law series examining the legislation that built America. Subscribe now to never miss an episode exploring the laws that shape our daily lives.

This episode includes AI-generated content.