If you have suffered employment discrimination in Vermont, you may be able to pursue an employment discrimination claim against your employer to recover compensation for your losses. There are many grounds for employment discrimination, but some of the more common causes of discrimination are sex, age, gender identity, race, creed, religion, and other factors. There are federal laws that prohibit these actions, but often, state laws provide extra protection. This article gives you more insight into Vermont employment discrimination laws.
What Kind of Discrimination Laws are in Place in Vermont?
Vermont’s anti-discrimination laws protect people from discrimination based on race, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, ancestry or place of birth, mental or physical disability, age, marital status and credit history, but the laws do not protect from discrimination based on a poor credit rating or score, criminal record, or other categories. The Vermont Human Rights Commission (VHRC) oversees the anti-discrimination laws in the state.
Who is Protected By Federal and State Laws in Vermont?
The state laws pertaining to discrimination in Vermont are enforced by the Vermont Human Rights Commission (VHRC). These laws protect all workers, including those at smaller employers. They are designed to ensure equality and fair treatment on multiple levels. There are federal laws – namely Title VII – in place to protect workers from discrimination as well.
What Employers are Covered by Discrimination Laws in Vermont?
In Vermont, state violations of the discrimination law are filed with the VHRC. If you work for a smaller employer, you want to file your claim there as well. Federal laws only apply to employers who have 15 or more employees. Most employers are covered by either state or federal discrimination laws in Vermont.
Which State Agencies Regulate Workplace Harassment Laws in Vermont?
The Vermont Human Rights Commission (VHRC) works to regulate workplace harassment laws in Vermont. The EEOC handles all federal claims. The EEOC has offices throughout the country. You can call the EEOC at (800) 669-4000 to start the claim online or to find out your nearest EEOC office. You can start a claim over the phone, online or by mail. You can also schedule an appointment at your nearest office.
How Do I File A Discrimination Claim in Vermont?
To file a workplace discrimination, claim in Vermont, you need to contact the proper office. For state violations contact the VHRC. If you have a non-state employer, visit the state’s website or call (802) 828-3657 to get a claim underway or to learn about the process. For federal violations, file your claim with the EEOC. You will need to contact the nearest office or visit the agency’s website. If your employer has 15 or more workers, you can file with the EEOC. The EEOC is a federal agency which oversees the federal discrimination laws. If your claim is age-related your employer must have 20 or more workers.
To file a claim with the EEOC, you can go online and visit their website. You can then start the process either online, over the phone, or by mail. You will be assigned a representative who handles such cases and who can help you get your claim on the right track. You will need hard evidence and supporting documentation to prove that you suffered the discrimination that you allege.
You do have limited time to pursue a workplace discrimination claim in Vermont, Federal laws give an individual 180 days from the date of the incident to file a claim. When state laws are also considered that time limit is sometimes extended. If you wait until the deadline has passed, you cannot pursue a claim and cannot recoup your losses.
How Do I Get Help Filing A Discrimination Claim in North Dakota?
If you suffered workplace discrimination in Vermont, you should enlist the help of an experienced Vermont employment law attorney who assists workers who have fallen victim to discrimination. An attorney is familiar with the state and federal laws that apply.
Be sure to go over the Vermont employment law attorney’s payment plans. Some attorneys require a retainer while others take cases on a contingency basis. To share the details of your workplace discrimination case and to determine the best way to proceed with your claim, complete the Free Case Evaluation Form. Provide contact details, so the law office can reach you.