If you suffered workplace discrimination in Iowa, you may be able to pursue a claim against your employer. Employment discrimination can be based on sex, age, gender identity, race, creed, religion, or other factors. While federal laws protect workers from such treatment, and many states have their own state laws that offer added protection as well. This blog details employment discrimination and how you can pursue a claim for such actions in Iowa.
What Kind of Discrimination Laws are in Place in Iowa?
The Iowa Civil Rights Act makes it illegal for an employer to discriminate on the basis of age if 18 or older, race, creed, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, religion, disability, or pregnancy. It also makes it illegal to retaliate against a worker for opposing discrimination or harassment. There are also federal laws in place to prohibit workplace discrimination. However, state laws often give extra protection and will ensure you have protection from being mistreated in the workplace.
Who is Protected By Federal and State Laws in Iowa?
In Indiana, all employers must adhere to age discrimination laws, so all workers who are 40 or older are protected. Workers who work for an employer with 15 or more employees are protected by the disability discrimination laws, and all employees are entitled to equal pay for both men and women. You should review the laws in your state and your employee handbook, so you can determine your protections and how to proceed.
What Employers are Covered by Discrimination Laws in Iowa?
The Iowa Civil Rights Act makes it illegal to discriminate against any worker based on age, race, creed, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, religion, disability, or pregnancy. This applies to all employers, so smaller employers who have 4 or more employees are required to adhere to the laws as well. Federal laws only apply to larger employers, so the state laws help take up some slack and ensure more people are covered.
Which State Agencies Regulate Workplace Harassment Laws in Iowa?
In Iowa, you can file a claim with the Iowa Civil Rights Commission (ICRC) or with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). The two agencies have a work-sharing agreement, so they share information with one another. The agencies work together to process claims, so you do not have to file a claim with both agencies.
To get your claim underway, contact the ICRC at (800) 457-4416. To file a claim with the EEOC, you can visit www.eeoc.gov to find the nearest field office or to start an online claim. You can also call (800) 669-4000 to speak with a representative and to start the claims process. Be sure to have all your documentation in order to pursue a claim against your employer for workplace discrimination.
How Do I File A Discrimination Claim in Iowa?
In Iowa, when you file a claim with the ICRC or the EEOC, you will need to make sure you provide copies of supporting evidence and documentation. You must provide evidence that will support your claim and confirm what you have alleged happened in the workplace. There is a statute of limitations for pursuing a claim. The federal laws allow 180 days from the date of the incident for a claim to be filed, but your time limit is extended to 300 days because there are applicable Iowa state laws.
If you do not file your claim before the deadline, it will be dismissed, and you cannot be compensated for your losses. Review your company handbook to see the company policy for filing a claim. If the ICRC or EEOC give you a right to sue form, you have only 90 days from the date on that form to file a lawsuit against your employer.
How Do I Get Help Filing A Discrimination Claim in Iowa?
If you suffered Iowa workplace discrimination, you should get the help of an experienced employment law attorney who is familiar with the Iowa state and federal discrimination laws. Complete the Free Case Evaluation Form on this page to share the details with an Iowa employment law attorney who represents workers who are victims of employment discrimination. You should get your claim underway as quickly as possible, to ensure that you have your rights protected and that you are on track to recouping compensation for your damages.
