Workplace Issues in Vermont
Key Vermont Law
Vermont Statutes Annotated Title 21, Section 495 (Vermont Fair Employment Practices Act)
Vermont's Fair Employment Practices Act prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, place of birth, age (18+), physical or mental condition, crime victim status, pregnancy, or credit history. It applies to employers with 1 or more employees for most protected classes.
View official statuteProcedural Details in Vermont
Vermont Agencies & Resources
Vermont Attorney General — Civil Rights Unit
Investigates employment discrimination complaints under Vermont law. Workers have one year from the discriminatory act to file.
Vermont Department of Labor — Wage and Hour
Enforces Vermont minimum wage, paid sick leave, and wage payment laws. Handles wage claims.
EEOC Boston Area Office
Handles federal employment discrimination charges for Vermont workers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do I have to file a discrimination complaint in Vermont?
Vermont gives workers one year from the discriminatory act to file a complaint with the Vermont Attorney General's Civil Rights Unit — among the longer state deadlines. Vermont covers employers with one or more employees and protects workers 18+ from age discrimination.
Can an employer in Vermont discriminate based on my credit history?
Generally no. Vermont's Fair Employment Practices Act includes credit history as a protected characteristic, meaning employers cannot discriminate in hiring or employment based on an employee's credit report in most circumstances. This is a protection not found in most states' employment anti-discrimination laws.
What is Vermont's minimum wage?
Vermont's minimum wage is $14.01 per hour as of 2024, adjusted annually for inflation. Vermont has one of the higher minimum wages in New England. Tipped employees may receive a lower direct wage, provided tips make up the difference.
Does Vermont require paid sick leave?
Yes. Vermont's earned sick time law requires employers with 6 or more employees to provide at least 40 hours of paid sick leave per year. Workers accrue sick time at one hour per 52 hours worked. Leave may be used for the employee's own illness, preventive care, or to care for a sick family member.
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 Vermont?
Every situation is unique. Try our educational assessment tool for guidance based on your specific circumstances.