Which organization enforces federal laws prohibiting employment discrimination?

• A. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
• B. Occupational Safety and Health Administration
• C. National Labor Relations Board
• D. Small Business Administration

Answer: (A)

Discrimination in the workplace is addressed by a federal civil rights enforcement agency, and that agency is the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. When someone believes they’ve been treated unfairly because of protected characteristics (like race, sex, religion, national origin, age, disability, or genetic information), they file a charge with the EEOC. The commission then investigates the claim, may mediate a settlement, and can sue the employer in federal court if needed. The EEOC also provides guidance to help employers prevent discrimination and to educate workers about their rights.

Other agencies have different roles: OSHA handles workplace safety and health standards, the National Labor Relations Board handles issues around unions and collective bargaining, and the Small Business Administration focuses on support and resources for small businesses. So, for enforcing federal laws prohibiting employment discrimination, the EEOC is the appropriate one.