Broward Florida Checklist of Illegal Interview Questions: Understand Your Rights as a Job Seeker When preparing for a job interview in Broward, Florida, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with the checklist of illegal interview questions. Employers are prohibited from asking certain questions that violate federal and state laws, including those outlined in the Broward County Human Rights Act. Being aware of your rights as a job seeker and knowing what questions are off-limits can empower you to navigate the interview process with confidence. Here are some important categories of illegal interview questions in Broward, Florida: 1. Race, Color, and National Origin: Employers cannot inquire about your race, ethnicity, or national origin during an interview. Discrimination based on these factors is prohibited by federal and state laws, including Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Florida Civil Rights Act. 2. Age: Questions regarding your age, birthdate, or when you graduated from high school or college are considered illegal. The Age Discrimination in Employment Act (AREA) protects individuals aged 40 and over from age-based discrimination. 3. Gender and Sexual Orientation: Employers cannot ask questions about your gender identity, gender expression, or sexual orientation. Discrimination based on gender or sexual orientation violates Title VII and the Broward County Human Rights Act, which prohibits discrimination based on gender, gender identity, and sexual orientation. 4. Marital Status and Family: Interviewers are not allowed to ask about your marital status, whether you have children, or your plans for starting a family. These questions fall under the purview of the Florida Civil Rights Act's prohibition on discrimination based on familial status. 5. Disabilities and Medical Conditions: Inquiries about disabilities or medical conditions are strictly forbidden in job interviews. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Florida Civil Rights Act protect individuals with disabilities from being discriminated against in employment. 6. Criminal History: Employers are prohibited from asking questions about your arrest record or past convictions that are not directly related to the job requirements. In Broward County, inquiries about criminal history are restricted under "Ban the Box" ordinances. 7. Pregnancy and Childbirth: Questions pertaining to your pregnancy status or plans for having children are illegal. The Pregnancy Discrimination Act (PDA) and the Florida Civil Rights Act safeguard individuals against pregnancy-based discrimination in employment. 8. Religious Beliefs: Employers cannot ask questions about your religious affiliation or beliefs during an interview. The Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits discrimination based on religion or religious practices. 9. Military Service and Discharge Status: Interviewers are not allowed to inquire about your military service, discharge status, or reserve obligations. Protection against military discrimination is provided by the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (SERRA). Being informed about these illegal interview questions can aid you in recognizing when your rights are violated during the hiring process. If you encounter any discriminatory practices, you can reach out to the Broward County Human Rights Section or consult an employment lawyer to explore your legal options. Remember, being prepared and knowledgeable empowers you to navigate the job market successfully while safeguarding your rights as a job seeker.