Oklahoma (OK) Sexual Discrimination Law in the Workplace

August 30th, 2006 Posted by Hannah

The Oklahoma sexual discrimination law in the workplace is defined in the Oklahoma Anti-Discrimination Act.  According to the law, employers are those who have fifteen or more employees.  It excludes Indian tribes and non-profit organizations or associations that function as membership only.  As far as employees are concerned, people who are employed by their parents, spouses or children are not included.

Employers in Oklahoma cannot make decisions affecting an individual’s employment based on that individual’s sex. 

If your civil rights have been violated, you can file a charge with the Oklahoma Human Rights Commission provided you do so within 180 days of the alleged discriminatory act.  You can file your complaint by calling or visiting the office. 

After you file a complaint, the Commission will send a copy of your complaint to your employer who will then have a chance to respond.  From there, an investigator will take over your case, collect information regarding your claim and then make a decision as to whether or not there is reasonable cause to believe that your civil rights have been violated.  If the investigator finds reasonable cause, you and your employer will be required to enter a settlement stage.  If you cannot reach a settlement, you case will go to a public hearing. 

You might decide to go through the federal courts instead of the Oklahoma Human Rights Commission.  To do so, you’ll have to file a request with the EEOC for a “Right to Sue” letter.  In Oklahoma, you won’t be able to go directly through the court system.  Only the Commission can file this type of case in the courts. 

It’s up to employees and employers both to know their rights and responsibilities when it comes to sexual discrimination in the workplace.  Employers should always keep posted a current Oklahoma Complete Labor Law Poster.    

 

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