SB 588

Expands the protected classes under the State’s employment discrimination statute (GS 95-151) to include pregnancy. Makes conforming changes to GS 126-34.02 (grievance procedures stemming from discrimination, harassment, or retaliation claims under the State Human Resources Act) to include pregnancy. Makes it a discriminatory practice under the State’s Disabilities Protection Act (GS 168A-5) for an employer to fail to provide reasonable accommodations (as described) for any limitation of an employee related to pregnancy, childbirth, or a related medical condition, unless the employer can demonstrate that providing such accommodations would impose an undue hardship on the operation of the business of the employer. Defines pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions in GS 168A-3 to include pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions, including lactation. Pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions are considered a physical impairment when they substantially limit one or more major life activities. Includes pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions in the definition of handicapping condition under the State’s Fair Housing Act.