Are employers allowed to hire or fire an employee based on gender?

In California, it is illegal for employers to hire or fire an employee based on gender. A law called the Fair Employment and Housing Act, or FEHA, was passed in 1995 to make sure employers do not discriminate against employees on the basis of gender. This law is enforced by the Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH) and covers all employers with five or more employees. Under the law, employers are not allowed to treat employees differently because of their gender when it comes to wages, hours and other employment conditions. For example, employers cannot fire an employee because the employee is a woman, and they cannot hire a male instead of a female. Also, employers need to provide equal opportunity in all aspects of employment, such as promotions and job assignments. They are not allowed to create a hostile work environment, or treat male and female employees differently when it comes to job assignments or evaluations. The DFEH also has the power to investigate complaints filed by employees who feel they have been discriminated against because of their gender. If the investigation finds discrimination, the employer could face penalties. In California, employers are not permitted to hire or fire an employee based on gender. It is illegal, and the DFEH is there to ensure that no employers engage in discriminatory practices.

Related FAQs

Are employers allowed to ask job applicants about their disabilities?
What is the difference between an at-will and a contract employee?
What is the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA)?
Are employers allowed to monitor their employees’ phone calls and emails?
What is the Equal Pay Act?
Can an employee be fired for filing a complaint?
What is the difference between a contractor and an employee?
Can an employer require an employee to work overtime?
Are employers required to provide employee health benefits?
Are employers allowed to ask job applicants about their criminal records?

Are employers allowed to hire or fire an employee based on gender?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts