It is against the law to terminate an employee or refuse to hire an applicant because she is pregnant or because of a pregnancy-related condition, or to. Pregnancy discrimination is against the law.The EEOC enforces three federal laws that protect job applicants and employees who are pregnant. Denial of Maternity Leave: Refusing to grant maternity leave that the employee is legally entitled to is a direct violation of their rights. The NYCHRL prohibits unlawful discrimination in employment, public accommodations, and housing on the basis of actual or perceived pregnancy.