Are employers allowed to ask job applicants questions about their sexual orientation?

In California, employers are prohibited from asking job applicants questions about their sexual orientation. This is part of the state’s employment discrimination law, which prohibits employers from discriminating against job applicants and employees on the basis of their sexual orientation. Additionally, employers may not refuse to hire a job applicant because of his or her sexual orientation. Under this law, employers are also prohibited from inquiring about an applicant’s sex life or sexual history. This includes asking about an applicant’s plans for marriage, relationships, or children. Although employers in California are not allowed to ask applicants about their sexual orientation, they are permitted to assess an applicant’s qualifications in relation to the job they are applying for. For example, employers may ask questions related to work experience and education that could help determine whether an applicant is qualified for the job. Generally speaking, employers should focus their job interviews on the applicant’s qualifications and ask questions that are relevant to the job they are applying for. California’s employment discrimination laws exist to protect job applicants and employees from discrimination on the basis of their sexual orientation, and employers should be aware of these laws when conducting job interviews.

Related FAQs

Are employers allowed to require job applicants to have a certain level of education or experience?
Are employers allowed to set different standards or expectations for employees based on their sex?
Are employers allowed to require job applicants to take a physical or mental ability test?
What is a constructive discharge and when is it unlawful?
Are employers required to provide employees with written notification of their right to file a discrimination claim?
Is it illegal for an employer to terminate an employee for filing a discrimination claim?
Are employers allowed to terminate employees due to their religious beliefs?
Are employers allowed to ask job applicants questions about their military service?
Are there special rules that apply to immigrants in employment discrimination cases?
Are employers allowed to require job applicants to complete a questionnaire?

Are employers allowed to ask job applicants questions about their sexual orientation?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts