Question

What was the seminal case establishing the concept of disparate impact?

-St. Mary's Honor Ctr. v. Hicks
- Griggs v. Duke Power
-Connecticut v. Teal
-Texas Dep't of Community Affairs v. Burdine

Answer 1

Griggs v. Duke Power Co. is the seminal case that established the concept of disparate impact in employment discrimination law under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act.

Step-by-step explanation:

The seminal case establishing the concept of disparate impact is Griggs v. Duke Power Co.. This landmark decision by the U.S. Supreme Court in 1971 centered on Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, making it unlawful for employers to use employment practices, like setting certain educational requirements, that disproportionately affect members of a particular race, color, religion, sex, or national origin unless the employer can demonstrate that the requirement is job-related and necessary for business operations. The case of Griggs v. Duke Power Co. became a cornerstone in employment discrimination law, highlighting the importance of demonstrating that job qualifications must be pertinent to the job role, rather than using standards that may unintentionally exclude certain groups.