Harassment or creating a hostile work environment because of a person's pregnancy is also prohibited under the Act in the employment context. Under the Act, an employer may not refuse to hire a woman because of her pregnancy and may not terminate a pregnant employee because she is pregnant.Employers have to allow employees who are pregnant or new mothers to adjust their work life with what is called a "reasonable accommodation. Pregnancy is considered a civil right in the state of Illinois. This means employers cannot discriminate against workers who are expecting children. In 2014, Illinois Governor Pat Quinn signed pregnancy discrimination and accommodation amendments to the Illinois Human Rights Act. The PWFA is a landmark federal law that requires employers to provide reasonable accommodations for pregnant and postpartum employees. Call today or fill out the form below. The Illinois Human Rights Act provides protection from employment discrimination based on pregnancy and childbirth, and that can include taking time off work. Pregnancy is a protected characteristic.