Authority & Roles
The EEOC is authorized to investigate complaints of employment discrimination filed by employees against employers. Employers who have at least 15 employees are usually subject to the employment discrimination laws the EEOC enforces, with the exception of age discrimination, which requires 20 employees.
When an employee files a complaint of discrimination, the EEOC will give the employer an opportunity to respond. The EEOC will then investigate the claim. If it determines that there has been a violation of employment discrimination law, the EEOC will try to resolve the claim between the employer and employee. If the claim cannot be resolved, the EEOC has the authority to file a lawsuit against the employer in federal court. An employee also has a right to pursue relief in court if it does not agree with the EEOC's findings.
The EEOC also attempts to prevent discrimination before it happens. It has outreach programs and provides information, guidance, and technical assistance to employers. In addition, the EEOC provides education to employers and employees.
Lesson Summary
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is a federal agency that enforces several employment discrimination laws and has the authority to investigate claims, make findings of discrimination, and attempt to resolve discrimination claims between employees and employers. It also has the authority to pursue litigation in federal court if a settlement cannot be reached. The EEOC engages in proactive prevention of employment discrimination through various outreach and education programs as well.
