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Massachusetts Employment Law Guide

Massachusetts has some of the strongest worker protections in the nation with comprehensive employment laws.

Quick Massachusetts Facts

4 Key Employment Laws
State Abbreviation: MA
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Sexual Harassment Laws in Massachusetts

Understanding your rights and protections against workplace sexual harassment.

Massachusetts Fair Employment Practices Act - M.G.L. Chapter 151B

Filing Deadline: 300 days to file with Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination | Employer Size: 6 or more employees

Your Protections

  • Covers employers with 6 or more employees
  • Protects against sexual harassment in employment
  • Covers quid pro quo and hostile work environment
  • One of the strongest state laws in the nation
  • Broader protections than federal law in many areas

Available Remedies

  • Unlimited back pay and front pay
  • Unlimited compensatory damages
  • Unlimited punitive damages
  • Attorneys fees and costs
  • Injunctive relief
  • Reinstatement

Key Features of Massachusetts Law

  • Among the strongest employee protections in the nation

  • Unlimited damages available

  • Lower employer threshold than federal law for some protections

  • Strong anti-retaliation provisions

  • Covers harassment by third parties and customers

  • Progressive enforcement with significant penalties

Need Help with Sexual Harassment?

Sexual harassment cases require immediate action. Don't wait - the clock is ticking on your legal rights.

Massachusetts Labor Codes & Legal Resources

Direct access to Massachusetts employment laws and regulations.

Official Massachusetts Labor Code

Access the complete, up-to-date Massachusetts labor code directly from the official state website.

View Official Massachusetts Labor Code →

Wage & Hour Laws

Minimum wage, overtime, meal breaks, and pay requirements.

Code Section: M.G.L. Chapter 149 - Labor and Industries

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Discrimination Laws

Protection against workplace discrimination and harassment.

Code Section: M.G.L. Chapter 151B - Unlawful Discrimination

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Sexual Harassment

Laws protecting against sexual harassment in the workplace.

Code Section: M.G.L. Chapter 151B Section 3A

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Retaliation Protection

Protection for employees who report violations or exercise rights.

Code Section: M.G.L. Chapter 149 Section 185 - Whistleblower Protection

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Wrongful Termination

Laws governing when and how employees can be terminated.

Code Section: M.G.L. Chapter 151B Section 4

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Download Resources

Checklists and guides to help build your employment case.

Key Employment Laws in Massachusetts

Important legislation that protects workers in Massachusetts.

Protection Laws

  • Massachusetts Fair Employment Practices Act
  • Massachusetts Wage Act
  • Massachusetts Family and Medical Leave Act
  • Massachusetts Whistleblower Protection Act

Important Limitations

  • At-will employment with extensive exceptions
  • Complex regulatory compliance

Common Employment Issues in Massachusetts

These employment law issues frequently arise for workers in Massachusetts.

Wrongful Termination

Fired for illegal reasons? We can help you understand your rights.

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Sexual Harassment

Experiencing sexual harassment at work? We can help.

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Disability Discrimination

Facing disability discrimination? Know your rights and get the help you deserve.

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Age Discrimination

Over 40 and facing discrimination? We can help protect your rights in the workplace.

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Gender Discrimination

Experiencing gender discrimination? We can help you fight for equal treatment.

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Race Discrimination

Facing racial discrimination at work? Know your rights and get the justice you deserve.

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When to Contact a Massachusetts Employment Attorney

Don't wait if you're experiencing workplace violations. Early action can protect your rights.

Discrimination or Harassment

If you're being treated unfairly due to protected characteristics like race, gender, age, or disability.

Wrongful Termination

If you believe you were fired for illegal reasons or in violation of Massachusetts law.

Wage and Hour Violations

If your employer isn't paying proper wages, overtime, or following Massachusetts wage laws.

Retaliation

If you're being punished for reporting violations or exercising your legal rights.

Family or Medical Leave Issues

If your employer is denying legally protected leave under Massachusetts or federal law.

Workplace Safety Concerns

If your employer is creating unsafe working conditions or retaliating for safety complaints.

Protect Your Rights in Massachusetts

Our employment attorneys understand Massachusetts law and can help you navigate workplace issues. Get a free consultation today.