Workplace Issues in Tennessee
Key Tennessee Law
Tennessee Code Annotated Section 4-21-401 (Tennessee Human Rights Act — THRA)
The Tennessee Human Rights Act prohibits employment discrimination based on race, creed, color, religion, sex, age (40+), national origin, or disability. It applies to employers with 8 or more employees and is administered by the Tennessee Human Rights Commission.
View official statuteProcedural Details in Tennessee
Tennessee Agencies & Resources
Tennessee Human Rights Commission
Investigates employment discrimination complaints under the THRA. File within 180 days of the discriminatory act.
Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development — Wage Regulations
Enforces Tennessee wage payment laws and handles wage claims.
EEOC Memphis District Office
Handles federal employment discrimination charges for Tennessee workers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to file a discrimination complaint in Tennessee?
Workers have 180 days from the discriminatory act to file a complaint with the Tennessee Human Rights Commission. EEOC dual-filing extends the federal deadline to 300 days. Missing the 180-day state deadline may limit state remedies and affect filing options.
Does Tennessee have pregnancy accommodation requirements?
Yes. Tennessee's Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (effective April 2023) requires employers with 8 or more employees to provide reasonable accommodations for pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions, unless the accommodation would impose an undue hardship. Tennessee workers are also covered by the federal Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (effective 2023).
What is the minimum wage in Tennessee?
Tennessee follows the federal minimum wage of $7.25 per hour. Tennessee has no state minimum wage above the federal floor and prohibits local minimum wage ordinances. Workers who believe they have been paid below the required rate should contact the U.S. Department of Labor Wage and Hour Division.
Does Tennessee protect sexual orientation in employment?
Tennessee's Human Rights Act does not expressly protect sexual orientation or gender identity. Workers may rely on the federal Bostock v. Clayton County interpretation of Title VII for federal protections. Tennessee has preempted local non-discrimination ordinances in some circumstances.
Related Workplace Issues Scenarios
Can I sue for wrongful termination?
Understanding when firing might be illegal and what your employment rights are.
Can I sue for unpaid wages?
Understanding your rights when an employer doesn't pay what you're owed.
Can I sue for retaliation after reporting workplace safety concerns?
Legal protection against employer retaliation for reporting safety violations or refusing unsafe work.
Can I sue for disability discrimination when employer won't accommodate?
Legal options when employers fail to provide reasonable accommodations for qualified disabilities.
Have a Specific Situation in Tennessee?
Every situation is unique. Try our educational assessment tool for guidance based on your specific circumstances.