COMMISSION TO HOLD PUBLIC HEARING JULY 15 ON AGE DISCRIMINATION IN EMPLOYMENT

Panelists to Discuss Recent Controversial Supreme Court Decisions

WASHINGTON – In light of widespread layoffs, a significant spike in age discrimination charges, threats to employee benefits, and controversial recent court decisions, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) will hold a public hearing Wednesday, July 15, 2009, at 10 a.m. (Eastern Time), at agency headquarters, 131 M St, NE, Washington, DC., to discuss age discrimination in employment.

Experts will discuss the results of age stereotyping on older workers' ability to keep their jobs during layoffs or to find work afterwards and the effect of recent controversial Supreme Court decisions on enforcement of the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA).  Panelists will suggest potential enforcement and policy solutions.  In addition, representatives from recent ADEA cases will discuss their experiences.  Finally, the Commission will issue a technical assistance document that explains terminated employees' rights and obligations when offered severance pay in exchange for a waiver of discrimination claims.

In accordance with the Sunshine Act, the meeting is open for public observation of the Commission's deliberations.  Seating is limited and it is suggested that visitors arrive 30 minutes before the meeting in order to be processed through security and escorted to the meeting room.

Additional information about the hearing, when available, will be posted at http://www.eeoc.gov/abouteeoc/meetings/index.html .

NOTE TO NEWS MEDIA:  You may phone (202) 663-7100 (voice) or (202) 663-4074 (TTY) on the day of the Commission hearing to confirm the above schedule. 

The EEOC is responsible for enforcing federal laws prohibiting employment discrimination.  Further information about the EEOC is available on its web site at www.eeoc.gov.