Discrimination

The main issues of discrimination are covered in three separate laws: Title VII, Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA), and American Disabilities Act (ADA).

Federal law only prevents discrimination based on:

Race
Color
National origin (including Native American tribes)
Gender
Religion
Age (if aged 40 or older)
Pregnancy
Disability
Citizenship status

Some states and local take the laws a step further to prohibit discrimination based on marital status, sexual orientation, or weight. If you want more information on your local anti-discrimination laws and regulations, speak with a professional employment attorney.

Most discrimination laws apply to employers with five or more employees, except for the Equal Pay Act. The Equal Pay Act applies to all employers and requires men and women to be paid equal money for equal work. If the job duties are substantially similar in the amount of skill, effort, and/or responsibility, men and women must be paid the same amount.

Discrimination does not apply solely to women and minorities. Discrimination can happen to anyone at any time. If a white man under age 40 is passed over for a job or treated unfairly in favor of a woman, cultural minority, or disabled person that man is being discriminated against and can file a complaint. Title VII protects everyone from discrimination, including Caucasians.

Despite all best efforts, any employer may be subject to discrimination complaints. Investigate and take the complaint seriously and contact an employment attorney. An employment attorney can make sure employers' rights are protected, as well as the employee's rights.