09/12/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 09/12/2024 08:58
Fair and equal treatment isn't just the right thing to do-it's often the law.
Whether you're hiring for a new position, planning a promotion or letting an employee go, it's important to be aware of anti-discrimination laws enforced by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). Why? Because if you're accused of discrimination or harassment, you could potentially face a long and costly legal battle to resolve it.
Need help from an insurance professional? Contact one of our ERIE Agents today.
These laws also protect your employees from any retaliation if they report a situation where they experienced or witnessed discrimination.
As a business owner, it's important to understand the laws that could lead to a discrimination claim.
Need a refresher? Here's a quick overview of protected classifications at the federal level. (Note: This is not legal advice - for specific guidance pertaining to your business, always consult a licensed lawyer with small business expertise.)
These laws also make it illegal to retaliate against an employee because the person complained about discrimination, filed a charge of discrimination or participated in an employment discrimination investigation or lawsuit. Remember: Local or state laws might get more specific than these federal laws. Be sure to familiarize yourself with any laws unique to your area and consult a lawyer for specific legal advice pertaining to your business.
Even if you do everything you can to be proactive and fair in your business, you still could be faced with a lawsuit accusing you of discrimination. Even if the accusations aren't true, a lawsuit could leave you stuck with hundreds of thousands of dollars in legal bills.
Good news: There's time to think ahead and protect yourself.
Talk to your local ERIE agent about adding Employment Practices Liability (EPL) coverage* to your business insurance policy. This coverage may help you in the instance someone brings a lawsuit against your business for wrongful acts, such as discrimination.
Learn more about what's included in EPL coverage or talk to your local ERIE agent for a customized quote.
*Coverages, benefits, limits and deductibles will vary. Terms, conditions, exclusions and limitations will apply. Refer to our disclaimer for more information. Talk to an ERIE agent for state specific policy information.
ERIEĀ® insurance products and services are provided by one or more of the following insurers: Erie Insurance Exchange, Erie Insurance Company, Erie Insurance Property & Casualty Company, Flagship City Insurance Company and Erie Family Life Insurance Company (home offices: Erie, Pennsylvania) or Erie Insurance Company of New York (home office: Rochester, New York). The companies within the Erie Insurance Group are not licensed to operate in all states. Refer to the company licensure and states of operation information.
The insurance products and rates, if applicable, described in this blog are in effect as of January 2024 and may be changed at any time.
Insurance products are subject to terms, conditions and exclusions not described in this blog. The policy contains the specific details of the coverages, terms, conditions and exclusions.
The insurance products and services described in this blog are not offered in all states. ERIE life insurance and annuity products are not available in New York. ERIE Medicare supplement products are not available in the District of Columbia or New York. ERIE long term care products are not available in the District of Columbia and New York.
Eligibility will be determined at the time of application based upon applicable underwriting guidelines and rules in effect at that time.
Your ERIE agent can offer you practical guidance and answer questions you may have before you buy.