AGE DISCRIMINATION
Age discrimination involves treating an individual or group less favorably due to their age. While age discrimination can affect people of all ages, it often targets older adults. It is important to note that under Minnesota law, age discrimination protections extend to anyone over the age of 18.
Minnesota Age Discrimination Attorney
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As a civil rights attorney practicing in Minnesota and beyond, I am familiar with the state and federal laws that prohibit age discrimination and can provide counsel and advocacy for those who have questions or concerns regarding the law.
What laws prohibit age discrimination?
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In Minnesota, the Minnesota Human Rights Act (MHRA) specifically prohibits age discrimination in employment, housing, public services, public accommodations, education, and credit transactions. This is broader than the applicable federal laws, which primarily focus on employment and only protect individuals who are 40 years of age or older.
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Employment: Both the MHRA and the federal Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) make it illegal for employers to discriminate in any aspect of employment, including hiring, firing, pay, job assignments, promotions, layoff, training, benefits, or any other term or condition of employment based on age. However, while the ADEA only applies to employers with 20 or more employees and protects individuals who are 40 years of age or older, the MHRA applies to employers with one or more employees and protects any individual over the age of 18.
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Housing: The MHRA prohibits discrimination in housing based on age. This means landlords, sellers, and housing providers cannot treat people differently based on their age.
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Education: Age discrimination in educational institutions is prohibited under the MHRA. This means that schools cannot treat students or prospective students who are 18+ differently based on their age.
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Public Services and Accommodations: The MHRA prohibits age discrimination in public services and public accommodations. This includes places like hotels, restaurants, theaters, and other public facilities.
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How can one spot age discrimination?
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Age discrimination can take many forms, including:
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Direct Discrimination: Treating someone less favorably because of their age.
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Direct Discrimination: Implementing a policy that applies to everyone but particularly disadvantages people of a certain age.
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Harassment: Subjecting a person to insults, bullying, or humiliation because of their age.
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The remedies available for victims of age discrimination under the MHRA can include compensatory damages, changes in policy, back pay, job reinstatement, and punitive damages. If you have questions or concerns regarding age discrimination, it's advisable to consult with an experienced attorney who can guide you through the complexities of both state and federal laws.
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