New Jersey Sues Amazon Over Alleged Discrimination Against Pregnant and Disabled Warehouse Workers

TRENTON, N.J., Oct. 23, 2025 — New Jersey has filed a lawsuit against Amazon, accusing the company of denying reasonable accommodations to warehouse employees who are pregnant or have disabilities. Attorney General Matthew Platkin claims that Amazon routinely failed to provide necessary adjustments, such as limits on heavy lifting, modified schedules, or alternative tasks, and in some cases placed employees who requested these accommodations on unpaid leave.

The lawsuit also alleges that employees who were granted accommodations struggled to meet Amazon's strict productivity expectations, leading to warnings or termination. The state argues that these practices violate New Jersey’s anti-discrimination laws and put vulnerable workers at risk.

Attorney General Mathew stressed the importance of accountability in high-volume workplaces. “In building a trillion-dollar business, Amazon has flagrantly violated workers’ rights and ignored their well-being,” he said. The state seeks compensatory and punitive damages, as well as an order requiring the company to modify its employment practices.

Amazon Responds to Allegations

Amazon has denied the allegations and said it supports pregnant and disabled employees. Spokesperson Kelly Nantel noted that the company provides up to 20 weeks of paid leave for pregnancy-related needs and has approved more than 99% of accommodation requests since 2022.

Kelly also disputed claims of rigid productivity quotas, explaining that Amazon strives to balance efficiency with employee safety. The company said that overall, its policies are designed to ensure the well-being of workers while maintaining operational standards.

Amazon expressed confidence that the lawsuit would not reflect the broader experience of its workforce, noting that the majority of employees successfully receive accommodations and continue working safely.

Broader Implications for Workplace Accommodations

Legal Requirements for Employers: The case shines a light on the obligations of employers under state and federal laws. Companies are required to provide reasonable accommodations for employees due to pregnancy or disability. These can include modified schedules, lighter duties, or reassignment to safer tasks. Workers who request accommodations are legally protected from retaliation, including termination or punitive measures.

Influence on Corporate Policies: High-profile lawsuits like this one often shape corporate behavior beyond the immediate company. Legal experts suggest that this case could encourage stronger protections, improve compliance with labor laws, and push other organizations to establish clearer procedures for handling accommodation requests.

What Does This Mean for Workers?

The allegations against Amazon underscore the challenges that pregnant and disabled employees may face in the workplace. If the state's claims are substantiated, it could lead to changes in Amazon's employment practices and potentially set a precedent for other companies regarding the treatment of employees seeking accommodations.

Workers and advocates will be closely monitoring the case to assess its impact on workplace rights and employer responsibilities. The outcome of the lawsuit could prompt other companies to review and potentially revise their policies to ensure compliance with anti-discrimination laws and to better support employees requiring accommodations.

The legal proceedings are ongoing, and the final outcome will depend on the court's evaluation of the evidence presented by both parties. As the case progresses, it may prompt further discussions about the balance between company policies and employee rights, particularly concerning accommodations for pregnancy and disability.

In building a trillion-dollar business, Amazon has flagrantly violated workers' rights and ignored their well-being.

Inputs from Diana Chou

Editing by David Ryder