Regardless of the field you work in, you need to remember that discrimination is a serious problem that impacts workers who belong to various ethnic, religious and age groups. Unfortunately, many workers over the age of 40 experience discrimination because they are older. In fact, there are a number of legal issues that young workers need to keep in mind with respect to age discrimination.
The impact of age discrimination carries a heavy toll, in many instances, from emotional pain and anxiety to financial problems brought on by a demotion or the loss of your job. If you are over 40 and you experience age discrimination, you need to take a firm stand for your legal rights.
Does federal law protect workers under 40 from discrimination?
According to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, workers under the age of 40 are not protected from age-related discrimination at work under federal law. This includes teens and adults who have not reached the age of 40. Even though some workers are not protected from discrimination, this is an issue that affects those under 40 as well (such as those who appear older).
Do other discrimination laws apply to young workers?
While workers under 40 are not protected from age discrimination under federal law, it is important for them to realize that it is against the law for them to harass or discriminate against a worker who is over the age of 40 on the basis of their age. Moreover, it is also against the law for a 40-year-old to discriminate against a worker who is older than them, such as someone in their 60s.