Despite the fact workplace discrimination is against the law, thousands of people still have to deal with it every day. As an employer, it’s up to you to understand employment discrimination laws.
We’re covering three important facts you need to know about workplace discrimination laws. Read on to learn what steps you need to take to ensure you’re being fair to all candidates and workers.
1. Employees Making Discrimination Claims Have Protection
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According to Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, it’s illegal to discriminate against a person due to their race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.
Congress later amended this act and passed the Pregnancy Discrimination Act of 1978, which states discrimination based on pregnancy is unlawful.
Most employers are familiar with these discrimination laws. It applies to any business with 15 or more employees. However, not everyone knows that employees have protection against any retaliation when they make a discrimination claim.
Any employee that feels they have been discriminated against can claim the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. They have 180 days to file after the act of discrimination took place, and they may seek a discrimination attorney.
Companies found in violation of anti-discrimination laws may receive fines of around $50,000 or more depending on the number of employees they have.
2. Age Discrimination Protects Individuals Over 40
The Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) was put in place to protect any employee over 40 against age-based discrimination. The ADEA applies to businesses with 20 employees or more.
Age discrimination is a real problem many older applicants and employees face. The issue spans many industries as well.
ADEA encourages the employment of older individuals. Employers cannot make decisions based on a person’s age, as it can result in biases and unfounded assumptions.
Anyone who feels they have been discriminated against due to their age can seek an age discrimination lawyer for help.
3. Some States Have Additional Laws
You need to understand the employment discrimination laws in your state. Some states have more than others.
For instance, in California, it’s illegal to discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, or sex, as well as the following:
- Ancestry
- Physical or mental disability
- Medical condition
- Marital status
- Sexual orientation
- Veteran or military status
- Gender identity or expression
- Genetic information
- Age
Make sure you understand all laws regarding discrimination and ensure you’re not following any discriminatory practices, even if you’re unaware of it.
An anti-discrimination training program helps promote inclusive behavior. It’s also a good step for employers to take and shows they care about their employees and fair practices.
Understand Employment Discrimination Laws
These are only a few examples of the many discrimination laws out there.
If you’re caught discriminating, you could find yourself owing serious fines. Plus, discriminatory practices can do a lot of harm to your brand’s reputation. As a responsible employer, it’s up to you to read up on each of them and ensure you’re being fair.
To continue to educate yourself, be sure to read some of our other articles.
Read more: How to Deal with Work-Related Injuries
