Are employers prohibited from discriminating against employees who are the victims of domestic violence?

Yes, employers in the state of Virginia are prohibited from discriminating against employees who are victims of domestic violence. Under the Virginia Human Rights Act, employers are prohibited from discriminating against an employee or applicant because of their status as a victim of a court-recognized offense or act of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, or stalking. Employers are also prohibited from retaliating against an employee for exercising their rights under the Virginia Human Rights Act. This includes the right to assert a claim of discrimination or cooperate with an investigation or hearing related to a claim of discrimination. Employers are not allowed to discriminate against an employee or applicant because they are a victim of domestic violence, including in regards to hiring, firing, promotions, benefits, wages or any other terms or conditions of employment. Employers must also ensure that they provide a safe working environment for employees who are victims of domestic violence. Finally, employers must allow employees to take unpaid leave for the purpose of obtaining medical treatment, counseling, relocating, or attending legal proceedings related to an act of domestic violence or stalking. Employers must also continue to provide medical benefits for employees who take leave, as long as the employee continues to pay their share of the premiums.

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