Title VII Definition: Because of Sex or Basis of Sex

Under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, what is the definition of the term “because of sex” or "basis of sex"? Here's my point of view (NOTE: please read our DISCLAIMER before proceeding).

DEFINITION OF "BECAUSE OF SEX" (OR "BASIS OF SEX")

The relevant law is found under 42 U.S.C. § 2000e, and it defines the term “because of sex” or "basis of sex" as follows:

…

(k) The terms “because of sex” or “on the basis of sex” include, but are not limited to, because of or on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; and women affected by pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions shall be treated the same for all employment-related purposes, including receipt of benefits under fringe benefit programs, as other persons not so affected but similar in their ability or inability to work, and nothing in section 2000e–2(h) of this title shall be interpreted to permit otherwise. This subsection shall not require an employer to pay for health insurance benefits for abortion, except where the life of the mother would be endangered if the fetus were carried to term, or except where medical complications have arisen from an abortion: Provided, That nothing herein shall preclude an employer from providing abortion benefits or otherwise affect bargaining agreements in regard to abortion.

42 U.S.C. § 2000e (emphasis and hyperlinks added).

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If you would like to learn more, then consider contacting an experienced Employment Discrimination Attorney as soon as possible to discuss your case. Please note: the information contained in this article is not offered as legal advice and will not form an attorney-client relationship with either this author or Williams Law Group, PS; please see our DISCLAIMER.

–gw