People above a certain age in Minnesota and across the nation will be aware of the possibility that their age could be a hindrance in their employment. Although age discrimination is illegal, it still happens frequently. While justifications could be provided by employers and others in a position of power in a workplace, if there is suspicion or proof that a person's age had a negative effect on their employment or attempts to get a job, it could be the basis to file a lawsuit to seek their employee rights.
Study shows age discrimination prevalent across the spectrum
What does it mean that Minnesota is an at-will state?
Like most other states, Minnesota is what the law calls an "at-will" state. In general, this means that an employer, at least a non-unionized workplace, can fire an employee at any time and for just about any reason. Likewise, an employee is allowed to quit work at any time and for any reason.
#MeToo movement may have unintended negative consequences
The #MeToo movement, which has involved a backlash against sexual harassment at the workplace, has generally been a good thing, especially for women. In a wide range of work environments, the #MeToo movement has made it more likely that both men and women will report sexual harassment promptly and will try to avoid even the appearance of inappropriate behavior.
Employees are protected after taking FMLA leave
The federal Family and Medical Leave Act, or FMLA, has been a mainstay in employment law for about a generation now. Basically, the FMLA allows many, if not most, employees to take a leave of absence from work for their own documented medical reason, including pregnancy and childbirth, or to take care of certain sick relatives.
Are there time constraints to claim employment discrimination?
Despite greater attention being paid to worker rights in Minnesota and across the U.S., workplace discrimination and employment discrimination is an ongoing problem. Frequently, victims are not certain as to what their rights are and how to go about filing a claim due to this type of discrimination. This can result in missing the time limits. For anyone who even suspects their employee rights were violated, knowing the time limits to file a charge is critical.
