Oregon lawmakers pass law to protect older workers from age-based job discrimination

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) – Oregon lawmakers want to make it illegal to ask questions that could reveal an applicant’s age in a new effort to limit discrimination for older workers.

It is already illegal to turn down a job applicant for their age, but House Bill 3187 would prohibit employees from asking for details like a job seeker’s birthday or graduation year until they make a job offer. 

“Adults of all ages have valuable skills and knowledge for Oregon’s workplaces, and older workers often bring years of invaluable experience,” Sen. Deb Patterson (D-Salem) said. “They deserve a fair shot to compete for jobs without prejudice, and this legislation will safeguard that opportunity.”

The Oregon bill has passed in the House and Senate. It now heads to Gov. Tina Kotek’s desk for her signature.