New Jersey Files Lawsuit Against Amazon Over Alleged Discrimination Against Pregnant and Disabled Workers
New Jersey Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin is suing Amazon for intentionally discriminating against pregnant and handicapped warehouse workers. Platkin and Division on Civil Rights Director Yolanda N. Melville filed the action in New Jersey Superior Court, a vital step toward bringing one of the world’s largest corporations liable for civil rights offenses.
Per the lawsuit, the Division of Civil Rights investigated Amazon’s treatment of pregnant and disabled workers after repeated complaints. The findings showed that Amazon’s internal procedures and management practices made modifications impossible, forcing staff to choose between health and careers.
Attorney General Platkin termed Amazon’s behavior “deeply troubling,” saying a company that distributes millions of products daily should treat its workers properly and respectfully. He accused Amazon of “stonewalling” employees who requested accommodations, automatically placing some on unpaid leave, or retaliating with reprimand or termination.
The state’s complaint claims Amazon’s policies unfairly punish workers who want flexible schedules, decreased workloads, or other basic accommodations during pregnancy or disability. Employees who failed to meet the company’s strict productivity goals were sometimes fired after receiving accommodations.
Director Melville termed discrimination “a systematic failure that exposes workers to avoidable risks and denies them their legal rights.” She referenced a pregnant worker who was placed on unpaid leave for requesting a wheelchair and another who was fired for limited lifting.
About 50,000 New Jerseyans work for Amazon, which disputes the claims. Amazon spokesman Kelly Nantel denied the claims, claiming the business “follows all federal and state laws” and prioritizes employee well-being. After accepting over 99% of tens of thousands of accommodation requests nationwide, Nantel granted qualified staff up to 20 weeks of fully compensated parental leave.
Despite Amazon’s denial, the lawsuit seeks damages and policy changes to comply with state civil rights laws. Officials said Amazon will be held accountable for its disregard for pregnant and disabled workers.
After a similar complaint filed earlier in the week, Amazon was sued again in New Jersey for violating state labor rules. As the case unfolds, concerns grow about how large companies balance production with worker rights and safety.
Sources
New Jersey Attorney General’s Office
New Jersey Division on Civil Rights
Amazon spokesperson statements
