SAN FRANCISCO, California — Microsoft Corp. has agreed to pay $14.4 million to settle allegations that the global software giant retaliated and discriminated against employees who took protected leave, including parental and disability, the California Civil Rights Department announced on Wednesday.

The proposed settlement stems from a multiyear investigation by the California agency, and the consent decree is subject to approval in state court in Santa Clara County, where the Redmond, Washington-based company has an office.