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ATASCADERO, Calif. >> A California woman is suing grocery chain Albertsons for denying her doctor’s orders to avoid heavy lifting after her premature baby died.
The San Luis Obispo Tribune reported Saturday that 30-year-old Reyna Garcia worked as a general merchandise manager whose job required heavy lifting and climbing.
Albertsons officials declined comment on the case but said they proactively accommodate pregnant workers.
Despite three doctor’s notes that said Garcia had a high risk pregnancy and shouldn’t lift more than 15 pounds, the lawsuit alleges her employer denied requests for lesser duties or a temporary switch to another department.
In November, Garcia asked to leave work because she was feeling tremendous pelvic pressure while 20 weeks pregnant. That night she gave birth to a baby girl who died 10 minutes after delivery.
