The discriminatory exclusion of pregnancy from benefits

In this podcast episode, the host discusses a Supreme Court case from 1974, Godellig v. Aiello, which centered around California's disability benefits program. The program provided compensation for various health issues that prevented individuals from working, except for disabilities related to pregnancy and birth. The court argued that this exclusion of pregnancy from benefits was not a violation of the Equal Protection Clause as it did not discriminate between men and women. However, this decision perpetuated gender stereotypes and ignored the economic hardships faced by pregnant individuals. The case continues to influence discrimination against pregnant people and has been cited in recent cases, such as Dobbs, highlighting the ongoing implications of the court's flawed analysis.