What is the Civil Rights Act of 1991?

The Civil Rights Act of 1991 (CRA) is a federal law passed in 1991 that amended major civil rights laws from the 1960s. It is part of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which protects Americans from discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. The CRA allows individuals to sue for damages in cases of intentional discrimination. This includes cases involving hiring and firing practices, promotion and transfer policies, and other aspects of employment. It also extends protection to those in the workplace who may be subjected to a hostile work environment. The CRA also expanded the scope of remedies available to victims of discrimination. These include compensatory and punitive damages as well as injunctive relief. This means a court can order an employer to stop a discriminatory practice and also award monetary damages to the victim. In addition to allowing victims to sue for damages, the CRA also established a penalty system. Employers that do not comply with the Act face substantial fines and may even lose their federal contracts if they are found to be in violation. The CRA further encouraged employers to take proactive steps to prevent and remove discrimination from their workplaces. This includes the obligation to provide equal opportunities for all employees and to ensure nondiscriminatory practices at all levels. The CRA is an important law that helps protect the civil rights of individuals in California. It ensures that all people have the same opportunities, regardless of their race, color, religion, sex, or national origin.

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