Workers from across the United States are getting older every year. In Minnesota, many individuals are reaching retirement age. However, because of financial concerns and other desires, many older Americans continue to work. Age discrimination laws are in place in order to prevent these workers from experiencing discrimination based on their age.
Federal age discrimination laws protect individuals who are 40 years old or older from discrimination. However, many Minneapolis workers may wonder when exactly these discrimination laws protect them from adverse action by a potential or current employer.
According to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, there are many situations where age discrimination laws protect employees. For example, age discrimination laws apply not only to traditional employment, but also apply for apprenticeship programs. In general, apprenticeship programs may not discriminate based on a person’s age. However, there are specific exceptions to this rule that apply in certain situations.
Age discrimination laws also protect individuals in job advertisements. Job notices and advertisements cannot discriminate based on a person’s age. Therefore, they cannot ask for age related information and cannot try to deter older workers from applying for certain positions.
Additionally, discrimination laws also apply when employers are providing benefits to employees. These laws prevent employees from failing to provide benefits such as healthcare to older workers. Even if it costs more to provide benefits for older workers, employers cannot deny these benefits outright. However, employers can reduce the amount of benefits given to older workers as long as the overall cost is the same as the employer is paying for a younger worker.
There are many situations where age discrimination laws apply in Minnesota. Workers over the age of 40 should understand their rights. For specific legal advice regarding age discrimination, people should speak with an attorney.
