Understanding Our Employment Laws

As Human Resource Managers, you will often be tasked to create policies and take actions that are based on employment laws. Therefore, it is important to take a holistic approach to understanding the laws that govern our workplaces. Please provide your answers to the following questions. Although these questions ask for your thoughts and opinions, your responses should be thoughtful and thorough. You should also be prepared to discuss your answers in class--and defend your positions.

1. What impact has Title VII had on our workplaces? Provide three (3) examples of workplace conduct that was permissible before Title VII was enacted but became unlawful afterward.

2. Why do you think that the ADEA was enacted?

3. Are there times that the OWBPA offers protections to the employer and employee?

4. Are the employment laws that we have covered (e.g., Title VII, ADEA, NLRA, OSHA, and EPPA) anti-employer? Employee friendly?

5. Can You Say This At Work?

After the second training session on the network’s conversion to digital format, you overhear Charles, who is 52, say to Carol, who is in early 30’s: “Wow, I am having a hard time wrapping my brain around these changes in this technology.” Carol responded: “Hey, old man, it can’t be that bad, just make believe it is like having sex with a new woman in your life.” The next day Charles passes Carol in the hall talking with Jeff and when she sees him laughs and says: “Did you take your pills today to get the old hard wires in your brain more flexible again. Don’t worry, the new technology doesn’t bite.” Jeff adds: “Hey, we are all just candidates for dementia. Keep up the good work pops.”