Workers employed in the State of California are protected from workplace discrimination by both state and federal laws. When an employer subjects a worker to unlawful treatment based on the membership of a protected class, the affected worker has the legal right to pursue an employment discrimination claim. Discussing the case with a skilled attorney can be advantageous. Southern California’s premier attorneys at SANFORD A. KASSEL, A Professional Law Corporation can help. The forthcoming information provides further insight into what is considered a protected class in California.
For more than 40 years, SANFORD A. KASSEL, A Professional Law Corporation has built a reputation in championing on behalf of workers who have faced workplace harassment and discrimination. To obtain a complimentary consultation with the firm, consider calling (909) 844-6451 today.
Federal Protections
Several state and federal employment laws strive to protect certain groups of people from discrimination in the workplace. Under federal law, employers cannot discriminate against their workers based on the following classes: Skin color, Race, Sex, Age (over 40), Religion, Disability, National origin, Genetic information, and Citizenship status.
When the employer has at least 15 employees, workers can be protected by the following laws: Americans with Disabilities Act, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and The Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act.
Employers with 20 or more workers will need to abide by the guidelines provided by the Age Discrimination Act, which makes it unlawful for employers to discriminate against those who are over the age of 40. Additionally, organizations with at least four employees will need to follow the Immigration Reform and Control Act. Under this Act, employers are prohibited from discriminating against workers based on the worker’s citizenship status. Moreover, private companies must ensure they are paying workers equally for their equal work, as outlined in the Equal Pay Act.
Protected Classes in California
Aside from federal protections, the State of California also protects workers from workplace discrimination. Under state law, employers are prohibited from discriminating based on the following classes: Race, Sexual rientation, Gender expression, Gender identity, Skin color, National origin, Ancestry, Religion, Medical conditions, Sex (such as childbirth, pregnancy, and related medical conditions), Physical disability, Mental incapacity, AIDS/HIV Age (when 40 or older), Marital status, Genetic information, Political affiliations, Military status, Veteran status, and Status as a victim of stalking, domestic violence, or assault.
Employers that have at least five employees are subject to state anti-discrimination laws. California laws work to prevent employers from engaging in conduct that constitutes workplace discrimination, retaliation, and harassment. These laws include: The California Family Rights Act, The California Fair Employment and Housing Act, and The California Equal Pay Act.
It should be noted that there are multiple cities and counties throughout the state that further protect workers from discrimination by employing their own anti-discrimination ordinances. For example, workers can find protection based on their height and weight.
When Facing Workplace Discrimination, Speak to a Knowledgeable Attorney
Workers in California are protected by state and federal laws when it comes to workplace discrimination based on certain classes. Employees who believe they have been subjected to workplace discrimination should contact an employment attorney right away. An experienced attorney will ensure the workplace discrimination claim is filed promptly.
The experienced employment attorneys at SANFORD A. KASSEL, A Professional Law Corporation are dedicated to the pursuit of assisting workers who have been subject to discrimination in the workplace. When facing workplace discrimination, consider obtaining the support of SANFORD A. KASSEL, A Professional Law Corporation by calling (909) 844-6451.
