CBP Settles Lawsuit with Pregnant Employees for $45 Million

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agency has reached a $45 million settlement in a class-action lawsuit filed by over 1,000 pregnant employees who alleged discrimination in the workplace. The settlement, announced by the employees' legal representatives, includes a new presumption that pregnant workers can continue in their roles without being automatically reassigned to light duty. This change comes after complaints that the agency routinely shifted pregnant officers and specialists to less demanding positions, impacting their pay and advancement opportunities. The lawsuit, initiated in 2016, highlighted that pregnant employees were often forced into light duty roles without consideration of their ability to perform their jobs. Lead plaintiff Roberta Gabaldon described the distressing experience of being sidelined despite her qualifications. The settlement not only provides financial compensation but also mandates reforms, including training for managers on the rights of pregnant workers and a commitment to reasonable accommodations, such as providing appropriate uniforms. While the settlement has been agreed upon, it awaits final judicial approval, expected in September. CBP has stated it cannot comment on ongoing litigation but emphasized its commitment to improving workplace conditions for all employees. The settlement aims to foster a more supportive environment for pregnant workers, addressing a culture that has previously discouraged transparency about pregnancy in the workplace. The agreement also includes a three-year monitoring period to ensure compliance with the new policies, allowing the plaintiffs' lawyers to report any ongoing issues to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.