Failure to accommodate pregnant employee leads to $22.5 million verdict
This case comes from a state court in Ohio on a verdict that came down on March 18, 2026.
Accommodation requested
Chelsea Walsh worked for Total Quality Logistics. She became pregnant but developed complications. Her doctor performed a procedure to assist with carrying the baby to term. As a result, her doctor instructed her post-procedure to:
· Work from home;
· Get bed rest; and
· Limit her activities.
Request denied
After her procedure, Walsh went to company headquarters, telling her managers of the restrictions. Their response: You’re required to return to work. Request denied.
Walsh’s husband then contacted HR at the company, explaining the situation yet again. This time, the request was granted, but it was too late. Later the very same day, the baby was born but died shortly thereafter.