Although New Jersey follows at-will employment, several state and federal laws protect workers from discrimination based on specific characteristics. Employees in protected classes have legal safeguards against wrongful termination or biased treatment.
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At the Law Offices of Usmaan Sleemi, we help workers determine if they have a valid discrimination claim. Below, we examine Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964—one of the most significant federal employment discrimination laws.
Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964
This law makes it illegal for employers to:
- Refuse to hire
- Fire an employee
- Discriminate in wages, benefits, or job conditions
based on race, color, sex, national origin, or religion.
Title VII also prohibits workplace segregation or classification that restricts employment opportunities for protected groups. This law applies to private employers with 15 or more employees and public agencies.
Other Federal Anti-Discrimination Laws
Several additional laws protect workers from discrimination, including:
- Equal Pay Act (1963): Requires equal wages for men and women performing similar work. Covers nearly all employers.
- Age Discrimination in Employment Act (1967): Protects workers 40+ from age-based discrimination (20+ employees).
- Americans with Disabilities Act (1990): Prohibits discrimination based on disability (15+ employees).
- Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (2008): Bans genetic-based employment discrimination (15+ employees).
New Jersey’s Law Against Discrimination (LAD)
The New Jersey LAD provides broader protections than federal laws and covers more employers, including small businesses and state agencies. Discrimination is prohibited based on:
- Race, color, national origin
- Religion, gender identity, or sexual orientation
- Pregnancy, breastfeeding, or marital status
- Disability, military service, or age
- Genetic information or hereditary traits
Call for a Free, Confidential Consultation
If you suspect employment discrimination, don’t wait. The Law Offices of Usmaan Sleemi can evaluate your claim, protect your rights, and seek the justice you deserve. Call today for a free, confidential consultation.
