What laws protect employees from discrimination?

Employees in Vermont are protected from discrimination in the workplace under both state and federal laws. The Vermont Human Rights Act (HRA) and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VII) prohibit discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, gender, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, and veteran status. The HRA prohibits employers from discriminating against their employees on any of these grounds in any hiring, compensation, or other employment decisions. Employers are also required to provide reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities, unless such an accommodation would cause an undue burden on the employer. Under Title VII, employers with fifteen (15) or more employees are prohibited from discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, gender, and age. Title VII also prohibits retaliation against employees who complain about discrimination or harassment. Employers who violate either of these laws can be subject to damages, civil penalties, and even criminal penalties. Employees who believe they have been discriminated against or harassed should file a complaint with the Vermont Human Rights Commission or the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, which are government agencies charged with enforcing these laws.

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What laws protect employees from discrimination?

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