What are the laws concerning discrimination in the workplace?

In Washington, employers are legally prohibited from discriminating against employees based on their race, color, religion, creed, national origin, marital status, pregnancy, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, honorably discharged veteran or military status, or use of a trained dog guide or service animal. This applies to all aspects of employment, including hiring, job assignments, promotions, pay and benefits, discipline, and termination. Employers are also legally required to make reasonable accommodations for qualified employees with disabilities. This includes temporary or permanent changes to a job or workplace to enable a person with a disability to perform their job. Employers also cannot retaliate against any employee for requesting or using a reasonable accommodation, or for filing a discrimination complaint with a state or federal agency. If an employee believes they are a victim of discrimination, they are encouraged to file a complaint with the Washington State Human Rights Commission or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. All complaints must be filed within one year of when the discrimination occurred. The agencies will investigate the complaint and may order mediation, or further legal action such as compensatory damages or the reinstatement of a job or promotion.

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What are the laws concerning discrimination in the workplace?

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