Discrimination: Oklahoma

Federal law and guidance on this subject should be reviewed together with this section.

Authors: Alan L. Rupe and Daniel Press, Kutak Rock LLP

Summary

• Oklahoma's Anti-Discrimination Act prohibits employers from discriminating on the basis of an employee's protected status. See Discrimination Under the Oklahoma Anti-Discrimination Act.
• Certain religious organizations are exempt from the Anti-Discrimination Act and may base hiring decisions on religion. See Coverage.
• Oklahoma has antidiscrimination protections related to an individual's military status. See Military Status.
• Before an employee may initiate a lawsuit against an employer for discrimination, the employee must first exhaust all available administrative remedies. See Filing Requirements Under the Oklahoma Office of Civil Rights Enforcement.
• Oklahoma employers may not discriminate against employees or prospective employees who smoke during non-working hours. See Smokers' Rights.