The amount of employees you have determines the labor laws that apply to your business. Companies that have 50 or more employees have to abide by the Family and Medical Leave Act, but companies with 15 employees have different federal regulations to follow.

Below are brief summaries of laws that apply to companies with 15 employees:

• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): Qualified individuals with disabilities are protected by this act. They’re protected against unlawful employment discrimination. This includes discrimination when an individual has the ability to perform tasks related to the job but is discounted because of their disability. The act also instructs employers to provide reasonable accommodations for disabled individuals unless they prove to be too difficult for the employer.
• Genetic Information and Nondiscrimination Act (GINA): Using genetic information during the employment process is prohibited. Employers are also prohibited from making genetic information a requirement in the hiring process.
• Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA): Pregnant employees are protected against being discriminated against because of their pregnancy, childbirth, or any related medical conditions.
• Title VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act: Discrimination, in any way regarding employment such as pay and benefits, is restricted. It’s restricted on any basis such as race, color, national origin, religion, and sex. It’s important to note that sex has been ruled by several federal courts to include sexual orientation.

There are other federal laws that are based on the number of employees a company might have but these are the relevant laws for companies with 15 employees or more. If you have any questions about these laws and whether you’re being compliant contact us at 866-445-2524.