What is the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA)?

The Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA) is a federal law that was enacted in 1994 to protect the employment rights of people serving in the military. It also provides veterans with protections against employment discrimination due to military service. Under USERRA, employers are prohibited from discriminating against individuals who are current members of the uniformed services or who have previously been in the uniformed services. USERRA provides protections to employees who are called to active duty, as well as protections for those who served in the past. The law requires employers to reinstate veterans with their benefits and seniority when they return from military service. This means employers cannot deny them reemployment because of their military service or discriminate against them in any way. Additionally, employers must provide employees with the same job opportunities available to individuals who do not have military obligations. USERRA also applies to employers in Virginia. Employers in Virginia must abide by USERRA and cannot discriminate against someone who is currently or was previously in the uniformed services. If employers violate USERRA, they may face penalties such as being required to pay lost wages and benefits or even being sued. Therefore, it is important that employers adhere to the law and understand what rights and protections veterans have under USERRA.

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What is the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA)?

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