What does the Age Discrimination in Employment Act prohibit?

The Age Discrimination in Employment Act specifically prohibits discrimination against individuals who are 40 years of age and older. This legislation is designed to protect older workers from age-based discrimination in various employment practices, including hiring, promotion, discharge, compensation, and other terms, conditions, or privileges of employment. By focusing on individuals aged 40 and older, the Act aims to ensure that older employees are not unfairly disadvantaged in the workplace due to age-related biases and stereotypes. This protection reflects a growing recognition of the value that older workers bring to the labor market and the need for inclusivity in employment practices.

In this context, the other options do not accurately represent the focus of the Age Discrimination in Employment Act. Options related to ethnic backgrounds, firing without cause, or equal pay based on job function do not pertain specifically to age discrimination and are governed by different laws and regulations.