The laws apply to all types of work situations, including hiring, firing, promotions, harassment, training, wages, and benefits. In November of 2017, the EEOC made the process of filing a complaint even easier with an online portal direct on their website.
Federal laws make it illegal to discriminate against a job applicant or employee because of:
– Race
– Color
– Religion
– Sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation)
– National Origin
– Age (40 or older)
– Disability
– Genetic Information
In 2016, there were over 91,000 complaints filed in the US. Illinois ranked amongst the top for complaints filed, coming in at 5th in the country. Of those complaints, 46% included a charge of retaliation.
Did you know…
– Discrimination can occur when the victim and the person who inflicted the discrimination are the same race or color?
– Job ads or requests that show preferences may violate the law? Example, an ad that seeks “recent college grads” may discourage those over 40 not to apply.
– The law requires reasonable accommodation for those with a disability? This might include a ramp for a wheelchair or light duty for a pregnant employee.
– The harasser can be the victim’s supervisor, a supervisor from another area, a co-worker or someone who is not an employee of the employer, such as a client or customer?
There are a lot of laws regarding employees in the workplace. At Xcel, we take these rights and responsibilities seriously. And we work closely with our clients to be the team that ensures that all of our employees are treated fairly and without discrimination in any shape or form.
For more information how we can help with knowledge and training, go to our contact page.
