If you have fallen victim to Ohio employment discrimination, you may have the grounds for an employment discrimination case against your place of employment. Employment discrimination occurs for many reasons, sex, age, gender identity, race, creed, religion, or other factors. While federal laws protect workers from such treatment, several states have additional laws in place offering added protection. This article discusses employment discrimination in Ohio and how to pursue a claim.
What Kind of Discrimination Laws are in Place in Ohio?
Ohio law makes it illegal for an employer to discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, handicap, age (40 or older), ancestry, sexual orientation, military status, or veterans' status. The Ohio Civil Rights Commission (OCRC) oversees handling the state laws regarding discrimination.
Who is Protected By Federal and State Laws in Ohio?
In Ohio, the state anti-discrimination laws apply to small businesses including those who have as few as four employees. The federal laws apply to employers who have 15 or more employees. So almost every employer must abide by the employment laws in Ohio. Only those with fewer than four employees are exempt from the anti-discrimination requirements.
What Employers are Covered by Discrimination Laws in Ohio?
The Ohio state laws cover businesses with as few as four employees. This means even smaller employers have laws to abide by, and they must do their part to make sure their employees are treated properly, and their rights are protected. The OCRC oversees the state employment laws and handles complaints. The Ohio civil rights laws and anti-discrimination requirements were enacted to ensure “equal opportunities and encouragement to every citizen regardless of race, religion, color, sex, disability, national origin or ancestry in securing and holding, without discrimination, employment in any field of work or labor” for which that individual is qualified.
Which State Agencies Regulate Workplace Harassment Laws in Ohio?
In Ohio, you can file a claim with the OCRC. The claim can be filed online or by contacting your regional office. The general number for the OCRC is (888) 278-7101. Regional offices are in Columbus, Akron, Cincinnati, Dayton, Toledo, and Cleveland. 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 evidence ready to support your Ohio workplace discrimination case.
How Do I File A Discrimination Claim in Ohio?
When you file an Ohio workplace discrimination claim, you can get it started with the OCRC or the EEOC. Be sure to provide evidence and supporting documentation. Without the evidence to back up your claim, your claim will not be proven and will not be successful. Just like with any matter, there must be proof to back up the allegations. You should show a pattern of discrimination and mistreatment.
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 Ohio state laws that also apply.
If you miss the deadline when filing your claim, 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 OCRC 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. It is imperative to meet all deadlines and ensure everything is filed properly and timely.
How Do I Get Help Filing A Discrimination Claim in Ohio?
If you suffered workplace discrimination in Ohio, speak with an employment law attorney who is familiar with the employment laws on the state and federal level as they pertain to workplace discrimination. Complete the Free Case Evaluation Form on this page to share the details with an employment discrimination attorney who represents Ohio workers who have fallen victim to such actions. 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.
