Which federal agency enforces employment discrimination laws?

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, or EEOC, is the federal agency responsible for enforcing laws against employment discrimination. Its primary mission is to ensure that individuals have equal access to employment opportunities regardless of their race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetic information. The EEOC investigates complaints of discrimination, mediates disputes, and can file lawsuits on behalf of individuals or groups who have experienced unlawful employment practices.

In contrast, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) focuses on workplace safety and health, ensuring that employers provide a safe working environment. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) primarily deals with promoting consumer protection and eliminating anti-competitive business practices, which does not include employment discrimination. The Department of Labor (DOL) oversees a broader range of labor issues, including wage laws and workplace standards, but it is the EEOC that specifically addresses discriminatory practices in employment settings. Thus, the EEOC is the correct answer as it plays a direct role in enforcing employment discrimination laws.