Which law protects employees from age discrimination in hiring?

The Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) is specifically designed to protect employees and job applicants from discrimination based on age, particularly for those who are 40 years of age or older. The law prohibits employers from making hiring, firing, promotion, compensation, or other employment-related decisions on the basis of a person's age. It aims to ensure that older individuals are treated equally in the workplace and that age does not unfairly disadvantage them compared to younger candidates.

This law includes provisions that prevent employers from engaging in practices that would disproportionately impact older workers and emphasizes that decisions should be based on the qualifications and abilities of the employee rather than their age. Understanding this act is crucial for both employers and employees to promote a fair and equitable workplace environment.