§2000gg–2 Remedies and enforcement

Summary

Gives the Commission, the Attorney General, and people who bring claims the same powers, remedies, and procedures that other federal civil‑rights and workplace laws provide when they complain under this chapter for the employee groups listed in 2000gg(3)(A)–(E). Which outside rules apply depends on the group. For example, parts of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (sections 705–711), the Congressional Accountability Act of 1995, chapter 5 of title 3, the Government Employee Rights Act (sections 302 and 304), and section 717 of the Civil Rights Act are used as the model. The rules in 42 U.S.C. 1988(b)–(c) (about fees and costs) and in 42 U.S.C. 1981a (about damages and its limits, including subsection (b)(3) and exclusions in 1981a(a)(1)) also apply when the text says they do. No one can be punished for opposing or reporting an act that this chapter makes unlawful, or for helping with an investigation or hearing. The same remedies apply to people who suffer that kind of retaliation. If the case is about a reasonable accommodation for pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, money damages under 1981a may be barred if the covered employer shows it tried in good faith, worked with the employee who told them about the need, and tried to provide an effective accommodation that would not cause undue hardship.