Are employers allowed to terminate employees for engaging in protected activities?

In Maryland, employers are generally allowed to terminate employees for engaging in activities that are protected under Maryland employment discrimination law. However, employers are not allowed to terminate employees for discriminatory or retaliatory reasons, such as engaging in activities because they object to discriminatory practices in the workplace. When an employee engages in activities which are protected by law, such as filing a discrimination complaint or participating in an investigation related to discrimination, the employer cannot terminate them for doing so. The employer could also be in violation of the law if they take adverse action against an employee for exercising a protected legal right, such as joining a labor union or taking unpaid leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act. Additionally, if an employee is terminated for exercising their rights in a public setting, such as protesting against a discriminatory practice, the employer may be in violation of the First Amendment of the United States Constitution. If an employer does terminate an employee who has engaged in a protected activity, the employee may be able to pursue a claim for wrongful termination or damages. An employee who feels they were wrongfully terminated because of an activity related to employment discrimination should speak with an attorney who specializes in employment discrimination law.

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Are employers allowed to terminate employees for engaging in protected activities?

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