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Hinson Supports Legislation to Protect Older Workers Against Discrimination

June 23, 2021

Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Ashley Hinson (IA-01) today voted in favor of the Protecting Older Workers Against Discrimination Act, legislation that would help stop age-based discrimination in the workplace.

"No one should face discrimination at work for any reason, including age," said Congresswoman Ashley Hinson. "This bipartisan legislation will help ensure that older workers can continue to bring their expertise to the workplace, provide for their families, and contribute to the economy without fear of age-based discrimination.

Background:

  • A survey conducted by the AARP found that 2 in 3 workers over the age of 45 had seen or experienced discrimination in the workplace.
  • This legislation would reinstate protections that were removed in the 2009 Gross v. FBL Financial Services Inc. Supreme Court decision, permitting employees to prove that age was a motivating factor in workplace  discrimination. 
  • The Supreme Court decision against Jack Gross of Des Moines, Iowa, significantly raised the burden of proof for discrimination claims, making it more difficult for older Americans to prove they are victims of age-based discrimination. 
  • This is particularly important amid the COVID-19 pandemic, where older worker have had to adapt to new work environments and schedules. 
  • Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA) helped introduce the companion version of this legislation in the Senate. 

 

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