When you go to work, your ability to do your job and contribute to the goals of your team is not contingent on your age. You may be older than some of your co-workers or even the people who are in management over you, but that does not mean that you are less capable than others. Unfortunately, not everyone views age in this way.
Age discrimination is a real problem in some Kentucky workplaces. This happens when older employees experience demeaning treatment, including discrimination, as a result of their age. If you are an older employee, it may be helpful for you to learn more about the laws in place that protect your rights and interests. You do not have to tolerate any type of discrimination or mistreatment and suffer in silence.
The Age Discrimination in Employment Act
This is a federal law that protects older individuals in the workplace. It makes it illegal for employers to discriminate due to age. This law applies to various aspects of the employment process, and it offers protections for individuals who are age 40 or older. Some of the specific things outlined in the ADEA that may be important for you include:
- Employers cannot use age as a factor in considerations during downsizing and layoffs.
- Employers cannot list age as a requirement when advertising for a job unless it is a genuine prerequisite for the specific tasks associated with the job.
- Employers cannot reduce health insurance or life insurance benefits for older employees.
- Employers cannot use age as a factor when hiring, firing, promoting, granting bonuses or during any other stage of the employment process.
- Employers cannot ask an employee to retire early.
- If an older employee files a claim because of age discrimination, the employer cannot retaliate in response.
If you experience age discrimination at your workplace in any form, you have the right to speak out about it. You may have grounds to move forward with a civil claim against your employer.
Your response
It can be intimidating to take action against your employer. You may fear for your job, especially if you are already facing difficulty in the workplace. You will find support and guidance from an experienced employment law attorney who can help you understand your legal options and help you move forward with the appropriate course of action.