Michigan Says No to Ageism: A Comprehensive Overview of Your Rights

Legal Q + A

Jan 17

Written By Graham Settleman

From Job Hunting to Renting an Apartment: Navigating Life Without Age Barriers in Michigan

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Age Doesn't Matter in Michigan: A Guide to Age Discrimination Laws

Imagine being passed over for a promotion because your boss thinks you're "too old" or denied an apartment rental because you're a young college student. In Michigan, such scenarios are illegal, thanks to comprehensive age discrimination laws that protect a wide range of individuals. Whether you're fresh out of school or nearing retirement, understanding your rights under these laws is crucial.

Scope of Protection:

First and foremost, Michigan stands against age discrimination with no minimum or maximum age. This means everyone, regardless of their age, is protected under the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act. Whether you're 18 or 80, you cannot be discriminated against in various spheres of life, including:

Employment: Hiring, firing, promotions, pay, benefits, training, and any other job-related decisions cannot be based on age.
Housing: Renting, buying, or obtaining financing for housing cannot be denied or made conditional based on age.
Public Accommodations: Restaurants, hotels, stores, transportation, and any place open to the public must serve everyone equally, regardless of age.
Education: Educational institutions cannot discriminate against students or applicants based on age, with some exceptions (e.g., age-restricted programs).

Beyond the Minimum:

While the Elliott-Larsen Act provides robust protection, Michigan also embraces the federal Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA). This act specifically protects employees aged 40 and over from age-based discrimination in the workplace. So, if you're above 40 and face workplace ageism, you have additional legal recourse under the ADEA.

Recognizing Red Flags:

Spotting age discrimination can be tricky, often masked in subtle comments or seemingly neutral policies. Be wary of the following red flags:

Age-related stereotypes: Comments about younger workers being "more energetic" or older workers being "out of touch" could be indicative of bias.
Unjustified changes: Sudden changes in job duties, workload, or performance expectations, especially targeting older employees, might raise concerns.
Hiring practices: Age-based limitations in job advertisements or interview questions focused on past experiences over current skills could be discriminatory.
Unequal treatment: Observe if individuals of different ages are treated differently regarding assignments, promotions, or benefits.

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Taking Action:

If you suspect age discrimination, don't stay silent. Here are some steps you can take:

Document everything: Keep a record of discriminatory incidents, dates, witnesses, and any relevant details.
Report the issue: File a complaint with the Michigan Department of Civil Rights (MDCR) or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).
Seek legal counsel: An attorney can advise you on your rights and legal options, including filing discrimination lawsuits.

Remember: Age discrimination is not just unfair; it's illegal. By understanding your rights and taking action, you can help ensure a level playing field for everyone in Michigan, regardless of their age.

Additional Resources:

Michigan Department of Civil Rights: https://www.michigan.gov/mdcr
Equal Employment Opportunity Commission: https://www.eeoc.gov/
AARP Legal Counsel for the Elderly: https://www.aarp.org/legal-counsel-for-elderly/getting-help/

In conclusion: Michigan's comprehensive age discrimination laws offer crucial protection for everyone, regardless of their age. By staying informed and empowered, individuals can actively combat ageism and build a more inclusive society in the Mitten State.

Information published to or by The Industry Leader will never constitute legal, financial or business advice of any kind, nor should it ever be misconstrued or relied on as such. For individualized support for yourself or your business, we strongly encourage you to seek appropriate counsel.