by KYW's Amy Feldman
After a woman posted an ad for a college-age babysitter on Craigslist, she received a call from a 50 year old man seeking the position. She was not interested in either a man or a 50 year old, but became concerned that she was violating the law when she would not consider him. Was she?
While Federal laws protect employees from discrimination on the basis of race, sex, age, and other protected class status—the federal law only applies to employers of more than 15 employees. Most domestic workers are the only employees in a household and are not covered. Some states and municipalities may have laws more protective of domestic workers but for the most part a family looking to hire a single babysitter may use any criteria it deems appropriate. Many online sites like Craigslist prevent you from advertising positions that state a preference based on age, religion, or sex and will take down your post if you do.
Even if you’re not in violation of federal law, remember that like any employer, you’re best served by hiring the most qualified applicant not on any preconceived notion.
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