One of the most confusing aspects of managing employees for small businesses is knowing what legal responsibilities they must meet under equal employment opportunity laws. There are many myths and misperceptions about what you must and must not do, and how onorous it is to comply with these laws. Here are the answers to some of the most freqently answered questions that the EEOC receives.
What laws does the EEOC enforce and do they apply to my business? Answer
How do I determine if a business of my size is covered by the EEO laws? Answer
Who may file a charge of discrimination with the EEOC? Answer
When can a charge of discrimination be filed? Answer
Can a small business resolve a charge without undergoing an investigation or facing a lawsuit? Answer
What employment records must I keep? Answer
What reports must small employers file with EEOC? Answer
How will I know if a charge of discrimination has been filed against my company? Answer
What can I expect to happen in an EEOC investigation? Answer
What records am I required to keep if I receive an EEOC charge? Answer
What happens if a charge is dismissed by the EEOC? Answer
What does the EEOC do if it determines that a violation of the law has occurred? Answer
If my company is found to have violated the law, what could happen? Answer
What should I do to prevent retaliation against and preserve relationships with current employee charging parties? Answer
What are Fair Employment Practices Agencies and how do they relate to the EEOC? Answer
What is the Immigration Reform and Control Act and must my business comply with it? Answer
What about affirmative action? Answer
Where can I find information about the Family and Medical Leave Act? Answer
What is the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act? Answer
To learn more about your rights and responsibilities under federal equal employment opportunity laws, contact the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)
The EEOC offers specific information for small businesses, including topic-specific guidelines and relevant contacts at the state and local level. Compliance assistance can be obtained at: www.eeoc.gov/employers/smallbusinesses.html
