A new law passed in Tennessee makes it easier for employers to discriminate against minorities, the disabled, Muslims and other protected classes.
In the past, an employee who faced Tennessee workplace discrimination could seek both compensatory and punitive damages by filing a lawsuit. However, there have been several changes made to Tennessee state law that limit the awards that can now be received by employees who face discrimination at work.
An article from Mondaq explains that on July 1, reforms were made to the Tennessee Human Rights Act and the Tennessee Public Protection Act. These changes limit the amount of compensatory damages employees can receive for damages like emotional distress or humiliation. Furthermore, employers that discriminate no longer face the threat of punitive damages.
The standards for proof for whistleblower cases in the state have also been altered. Now, a whistleblower must make a complaint about their mistreatment to a person outside of the company. They must also prove their claims of illegal activity are the reason for their termination or mistreatment at the workplace.
