Question

You work as a Human Resources (HR) representative for a medium-sized Internet/cable company in the United States. Today you are meeting with Kyle, who is the new manager of a team of 150 customer service representatives. Kyle tells you that five of his female customer service reps have provided him with documented proof that they have repeatedly been passed over for promotion, while men with fewer years of experience and fewer skills were promoted instead.

Identify which area of employment law this concern pertains to.
State which federal agency administers and enforces that area of law.
Describe the four major issues that are covered by that area of law.

Answer 1

This situation raises concerns under Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) laws, administered by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). It involves potential gender-based discrimination, harassment, retaliation, and violations of equal pay provisions.

Area of Employment Law:

This concern pertains to Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Law.

Federal Agency:

The federal agency that administers and enforces Equal Employment Opportunity laws in the United States is the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).

Four Major Issues Covered by EEO Law:

1. Discrimination:

- EEO laws prohibit discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or age. In this case, the concern involves potential gender-based discrimination.

2. Harassment:

- EEO laws address workplace harassment, including sexual harassment. If the female customer service representatives faced unfair treatment or a hostile work environment due to their gender, it may be a violation of EEO laws.

3. Retaliation:

- Employees are protected from retaliation for reporting discriminatory practices. If the female employees faced negative consequences for documenting and reporting their concerns, it could be considered retaliation.

4. Equal Pay:

- EEO laws include provisions for equal pay for equal work, ensuring that employees are compensated fairly regardless of gender. If the male employees with fewer years of experience and skills were promoted over more qualified female counterparts, it could raise concerns about equal pay violations.