Question

Research and describe in detail the components of the Civil Rights Act of 1991 and all the major elements of the law.

Answer 1

Civil rights act of 1991

The civil rights act of 1991 is the most complete legislation since civil rights act of 1964. The law was passed by congress on Nov 21, 1991 after two years of debate. It prohibits discriminating against job applicants and workers on the basis of race, gender, religion, color, or ethnicity.

The civil rights act of 1991 reinforced the civil rights act of 1964 especially in case of liability in employers and the burden of proof. The act provides increased financial damages and jury trial in case of intentional discrimination relating to the five protected groups.

The key features of the new legislation are as follows:

• The ability to provide punitive and compensatory damages to the injured parties
• An employee can opt for a trial by a judge instead of the trail by a judge. 1964 CRA allows for trial by judge only.
• Provides the employee the ability to collect the damages if the case has a jury.
• The maximum amount set for damages is increased by three folds if three people of the same company are suing the company.
• It strengthens the civil rights act of 1964.

The civil rights act of 1991 does not apply to companies with employees less than 15. It does not address employment discrimination based on sexual orientation.

Reference:

"civil right act of 1991: everything you need to know"