Can I be fired because of discrimination?
In Washington, it is illegal for an employer to fire an employee based on discrimination. Discrimination can include race, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, disability, genetic information, and other protected classes. Being fired because of discrimination is considered wrongful termination. If an employee believes that they have been wrongfully terminated due to discrimination, they may file a complaint with the Washington State Human Rights Commission. The commission will investigate the case and make a determination as to whether the employee was discriminated against or not. If the employer is found to have violated laws against discrimination, the employee may be able to receive back pay, compensation for lost wages, and other damages. If an employee does file a complaint with the Washington State Human Rights Commission, the employer must provide a defense for why the employee was fired. This defense must not involve any type of discrimination and must be provided in good faith and with evidence. If it is found that an employer has violated discrimination laws, they may be subject to punitive damages, and be required to pay the employee’s legal fees, and possibly even reinstating them to their job. In conclusion, it is illegal for an employer to fire an employee because of discrimination in Washington. If an employee believes they were wrongfully terminated due to discrimination, they may file a complaint with the Washington State Human Rights Commission. The commission will investigate the case and the employer must provide a defense for why the employee was fired. If it is found that the employer violated discrimination laws, they may be subject to punitive damages and other penalties.
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