Who is Protected?

1. Employees and job applicants 40 years of age or older.
2. Employees in the protected age class who are employed, or are seeking employment, at a place of employment with 20 or more employees under federal law and 4 or more employees under state law.

The law requires employers, employment agencies and labor unions to implement employment practices and policies that are free from age discrimination.

Complaint Process

Any person who feels that they are a victim of discrimination because of their race, color, religion, sex, national origin, ancestry, disability, age familial status (housing only), or military status may file a formal complaint with the Ohio Civil Rights Commission (OCRC).

A person may also file on the basis of retaliation if they believe that they are retaliated against for exercising their right to file a charge, for participating in an investigation or for complaining about discrimination.

If the mediation process is unsuccessful, or if one party does not wish to participate in mediation, the case will be referred to the investigative unit. Through a series of steps, including witness interviews, document requests and site visits, the Commission will determine whether or not discrimination has occurred.

All services are free of charge and complaints can be filed in person at your local OCRC office, by telephone, or on our website. Charges must be filed within six months from the date of harm for public accommodation and credit, and two years for employment charges.