Anyone who was a victim of sexual harassment in Missouri may be eligible to file a claim against their employer for sexual harassment. There are state and Federal laws that protect people from sexual harassment in Missouri. Please know that if you have experienced sexual harassment at work, it’s not your fault. If you can file a claim against your employer for sexual harassment, you may be helping not just yourself but also someone else who was a victim.
What Missouri laws protect against sexual harassment?
Workers in Missouri may be protected by both the Missouri Human Rights Act and VII of the Federal Civil Rights Act. Both laws prohibit discrimination that includes sexual harassment.
At the Federal level, Title VII specifically says that employers can’t discriminate against employees on the basis of their race, religion, gender, sex, or where they are from. Sexual harassment is considered to be gender-based discrimination, so it’s illegal under Title VII.
The Missouri Human Right Act prohibits sexual harassment in workplaces with six or more employees. So, if your workplace has more than six employees, your employer may have violated the Missouri Human Rights Act as well as Title VII.
What is considered sexual harassment?
Sexual harassment in the workplace includes actions like:
- Unwanted sexual advances
- Inappropriate touching
- Sexual comments or jokes
- Displaying sexual images or materials
- Making sexually suggestive gestures or sounds
- Spreading sexual rumors or gossip
- Sending inappropriate messages
- Threatening to fire someone for not engaging in sexual acts
- Creating a sexually hostile work environment
- Retaliation for reporting harassment
How is sexual harassment covered by law in Missouri?
The Missouri Human Rights Act applies to any business that has more than six employees. So, if you work at a business that has more than six employees, you are protected by the MFEPA.
Title VII of the Civil Rights Act applies to:
- Private employers with 15 or more employees.
- Federal, state, and local government employers.
- Employment agencies.
- Labor unions with 15 or more members.
- Apprenticeship programs and training programs.
Where to file a workplace sexual harassment claim in Missouri
If you experienced sexual harassment in Missouri, you can file a claim with the Missouri Commission on Human Rights. You can file a sexual harassment claim in Missouri using any of these methods:
- Online: MCHR Complaint Portal
- By Phone: 573-751-3325
- By Email: mchr@labor.mo.gov
- By Mail or In-Person:
- Missouri Commission on Human Rights
- P.O. Box 1129
- Jefferson City, MO 65102
You can also file a claim against your employer with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission if your employer meets the Federal standard for Title VII coverage. You can file an EEOC complaint online or over the phone. You can also visit an EEOC office if you need help with your complaint.
How long do I have to file a sexual harassment claim in Missouri?
Don’t wait to file a sexual harassment claim in Missouri. If you don’t file your complaint within 180 days, you may lose your right to file a complaint.
Getting help filing a sexual harassment claim in Missouri
Filing a successful sexual harassment claim in Missouri can be difficult. It’s much easier if you have help from an experienced sexual harassment attorney. A sexual harassment lawyer can help you fill out your claim, gather evidence, and fight for your rights.
