Alaska is an at-will employment state. Contrary to what some believe, this doesn’t mean employers in Alaska can fire workers for absolutely any reason whatsoever.
At-will employment laws do grant employers substantial flexibility when deciding whether to terminate workers. However, Alaska wrongful termination laws also prohibit employers from firing workers for discriminatory reasons. The following overview will explain what you need to know about this topic if you’ve recently been fired in Alaska.
What is the Alaska Human Rights Act?
The Alaska State Commission for Human Rights (ASCHR) is responsible for enforcing theAlaska Human Rights Law (AHRL). Under this state law, employers cannot discriminate against employees on the basis of:
- Race/color
- Religion
- Sex
- Sexual orientation
- Gender identity
- National origin
- Disability
- Age
- Marital status (including changes to marital status)
- Pregnancy/parenthood
You may have a valid Alaska wrongful termination case if you suspect an employer terminated you for any of the above reasons. For example, maybe your employer terminated you when they learned you became pregnant.
They may have done so because they fear you will be less dedicated to your job now that you’re becoming a parent. Firing a worker for such a reason is illegal.
That’s just one example. If you’re not sure whether an employer broke wrongful termination laws in Alaska, strongly consider reviewing your case with an attorney.
What Other Laws Protect Alaska Workers From Wrongful Termination?
Along with the AHRL, various federal laws also prohibit wrongful termination. They are:
- Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964
- Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA)
- Whistleblower Protection Act
- Employee Polygraph Protection Act (EPPA)
- Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
- Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA)
These laws apply in all states. Research the matter further if you think an employer may have violated one or more of them.
Who Oversees the Wrongful Termination Laws in Alaska?
The ASCHR is the state agency responsible for handling wrongful termination complaints. The agency’s website provides thorough information about how you may file a complaint. Review it to determine what steps you must take to initiate the claims process. Act fast to avoid missing any deadlines.
When filing a complaint, ask if the agency is also going to file a complaint with the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). If not, you may do so yourself. If you struggle with any of the steps the process of filing a complaint involves, be aware that a lawyer can assist you.
Get in Touch With a Lawyer That Takes Alaska Wrongful Termination Claims
Proving an employer broke wrongful termination laws in Alaska when they fired you can require gathering substantial evidence. If you’re not very familiar with Alaska wrongful termination laws, you might not even be certain you have a valid case.
Luckily, pursuing justice isn’t something you need to do on your own. An attorney can review your case and help you navigate the claims process if you decide to hire one. For more information about what an wrongful termination lawyer may do for you, take the Free Case Evaluation today to get connected with an employment law attorney who subscribes to the website and takes cases in Alaska.
