Connecticut has enacted legislation (Senate Bill 56) that expressly prohibits employers from asking applicants age-related related questions on application forms. Senate Bill 56 takes effect on October 1, 2021.
Background:
In Connecticut, employers with three or more employees are prohibited from discriminating against individuals based on their age and certain other protected characteristics.
Senate Bill 56:
Under Senate Bill 56, employers are prohibited from requesting or requiring the following information on an initial employment application:
- Age,
- Date of birth, and
- Dates of attendance at or date of graduation from an educational institution.
Exceptions:
The above prohibitions don't apply to any employer requesting or requiring such information based on a bona fide occupational qualification or need, or when such information is required to comply with any provision of state or federal law.
Compliance Recommendations:
Connecticut employers should review hiring procedures and forms to ensure compliance with Senate Bill 56.
Note: While Senate Bill 56 is limited to initial application forms, asking age-related questions elsewhere in the hiring process, such as during interviews, is generally not considered a best practice and may be questioned if a hiring decision is ever challenged.
Please contact your dedicated service professional with any questions.