Which federal law helps protect workers from workplace discrimination based on age?

The Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) is the federal law designed specifically to protect workers from discrimination based on age. Enacted in 1967, this law is aimed at individuals who are 40 years of age and older. It prohibits employers from discriminating against employees in various aspects of employment, including hiring, promotions, and termination, solely based on their age.

In contexts such as hiring practices or workplace policies, the ADEA ensures that older employees have the same opportunities as their younger counterparts, promoting a more balanced workforce and mitigating age-related biases. This legal framework is crucial for creating an equitable work environment where experience and knowledge are valued, regardless of an employee's age.

The other laws mentioned serve different purposes: the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) protects against discrimination based on disability; the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) affords employees the right to take unpaid leave for family and medical reasons; and Title VII of the Civil Rights Act addresses discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. Each of these laws is important in its own right, but the ADEA specifically targets issues surrounding age discrimination in the workplace.