A South Carolina carrier has been fined by the EEOC for discriminating against a pregnant employee. The company, Kenan Transport, allegedly retaliated against the woman because she threatened to file a complaint about the discrimination.
The EEOC claims that Kenan Transport violated federal law when the company discriminated against the pregnant employee.
According to the EEOC, Jessica Williams worked for the carrier as a billing clerk.
On February 23, 2012, Williams went into premature labor. Doctors were able to stop labor, but Williams was placed on bed rest and told by her doctors not to return to work until after the baby could be delivered. When Williams called the carrier to notify them of the situation, Kenan Transport allegedly informed Williams she was not allowed to return. Williams was seven and a half months pregnant at the time.
Williams complained to the company and informed them of her intent to file a pregnancy discrimination complaint.
Less than a month labor, Williams gave birth.
The EEOC states that Kenan terminated William’s employment with the company on May 14 because of her threats of filing a discrimination charge.
Federal law prohibits employers from discriminating against employees who file complaints about discrimination.
The EEOC is seeking back pay and compensatory and punitive damages for Williams.
Kenan Advantage Group has more than 6,500 trucks in its fleet and is one of the largest tanker/bulk hauling operations in the U.S., while Kenan Transport had more than 900 trucks, according to 2011 federal records, the most recent available.