Key Terms
Purpose
Protect individuals from employment and insurance decisions based on genetic information.
Scope
Covers ALL forms of compensation — salary, bonuses, benefits (including vacation).
Filing
Victims do NOT need to file with the EEOC first. They may file directly in federal court.
Standard
Courts interpret the law as requiring equal pay for SUBSTANTIALLY EQUAL work, not identical work. Demanding truly identi
Common enforcement problem
Women who leave the workforce to raise children face a career gap. Courts must then compare their experience to male cou
Applies to
Employers with 15 or more employees. Protects: qualified individuals with disabilities.
Five protected classes under Title VII
1. Race 2.
Covered actions include
Refusal to hire, failure to compensate fully, denial of advancement opportunities, demotion, temporary layoff, terminati
Race discrimination
Treating someone unfavorably because of their race or because of physical characteristics associated with race (hair tex
Color discrimination
Treating someone unfavorably specifically because of skin tone or complexion.
Both forms extend to association
Discriminating against someone because they are married to or associated with a person of a certain race or color is als
Rule
Employers cannot require employees to participate in religious activities as a condition of employment, UNLESS the emplo
Reasonable accommodation required
Employers must accommodate religious beliefs and practices unless doing so causes UNDUE HARDSHIP on business operations.
Dress and appearance
If a religious practice requires specific attire (example: a hijab), the employer must allow it unless undue hardship ap
Stereotyping is illegal
Assuming a woman with children is less committed, would prefer fewer hours, or is less qualified is illegal gender discr