What are the laws regarding discrimination in hiring practices in Ohio?
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In Ohio, it is illegal for employers to discriminate against potential employees based on their protected characteristics. Protected characteristics include race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or ancestry.
Ohio law follows federal law in prohibiting discrimination in hiring practices based on protected characteristics. This means that Ohio employers must comply with the protections provided by Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and the Age Discrimination in Employment Act.
Employers in Ohio cannot use discriminatory hiring practices such as requiring applicants to provide their age, asking about an applicant's religion, or using racial quotas in the hiring process. Additionally, employers cannot advertise job openings in a way that excludes potential applicants based on their protected characteristics.
There are some exceptions to the protections against discrimination in hiring practices. For instance, employers may prioritize hiring individuals who belong to a certain protected class if their status is a bona fide occupational qualification (BFOQ) and is necessary for the job. Additionally, employers may give preference to veterans in hiring if they are a covered employer under the Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act.
If an individual experiences discrimination during the hiring process, they can file a complaint with the Ohio Civil Rights Commission (OCRC) or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). It is important to note that there are strict time limits for filing a complaint, so it is important to act quickly.
In conclusion, discrimination in hiring practices in Ohio is illegal and protected by federal and state law. Employers must comply with these protections and cannot discriminate against potential employees based on their protected characteristics. There are exceptions to the protections, but they are narrow and limited. If an individual experiences discrimination during the hiring process, they should promptly file a complaint with the applicable agency.
