EEOC Updates Anti-Bias COVID-19 Guidance

On April 23^rd, 2020, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) announced additions to their technical assistance guidance, “What You Should Know About COVID-19 and the ADA, the Rehabilitation Act, and Other EEO Laws,” providing employers with crucial information on how to avoid possible workplace discrimination claims during the coronavirus pandemic. Provided in a “question and answer” format, the frequently updated resource covers topics important to employers today dealing with the employment ramifications of COVID-19. The subject matter discussed all falls under the EEOC’s enforcement of workplace anti-discrimination laws including:

• the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA);
• the Rehabilitation Act;
• Title VII of the Civil Rights Act (Title VII);
• the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA); and
• the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA).

Specific COVID-19-related information within the guidance includes:

• Disability-Related Inquiries and Medical Exams;
• Hiring and Onboarding;
• Reasonable Accommodations;
• Pandemic-Related Harassment; and
• Returning to Work

The EEOC wants to remind employers that all EEO laws are in full effect during the time of the global coronavirus pandemic. Just as the COVID-19 pandemic evolves, so does the guidance provided by the EEOC and other government agencies. To keep up to date on any releases involving workplace anti-discrimination laws during this uncertain time, employers can visit the EEOC Newsroom webpage for any new and important information.