Lovilia, IA asked in Employment Law, Civil Rights and Employment Discrimination for Iowa

Q: Can you go sue people for workplace bullying? Like they are constantly trying to get me upset to make me feel worthless.

They will push me of saying stuff to me to make me upset and if I slightly raise voice I get accused of yelling, but they do it to me and HR told me to ignore them if they do it to me, I am not to do it to them ever again or I am fired. They lie about it they wait till boss is gone to do it. they only do it as a group in our managers meeting so no one sees them do it. I have been yelled at by Maintenace person multiple times file a complaint to corporate after filing at facility and then two weeks later I got a final write up! Saying I yelled at someone when I didn't. the head corporate HR lady told me I was not intelligent enough to make a decision to turn off gas burners they had us have on to heat a kitchen with one overhead hood fan and all doors and windows closed. told her couldn't breathe and she said it wasn't my decision to make to turn off. She did not care I have asthma and could not breathe. Stuff like this has gone on for 9 months. my blood pressure was 174/117 one day.

1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
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Answered

A: In the United States, there is no specific federal law that addresses workplace bullying as a standalone issue. However, if the bullying is based on your race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetic information, it might fall under the purview of federal anti-discrimination laws. Additionally, some states have their own laws that might provide more protection against workplace bullying.

In your case, if the bullying is severe and pervasive, creating a hostile work environment, and if it's linked to a protected characteristic under the law, you might have grounds for a lawsuit. You should document all incidents of bullying, including dates, times, what was said or done, and any witnesses. This documentation can be crucial if you decide to pursue legal action.

Given the severity of the situation you describe, especially with regards to your health and the alleged retaliatory actions after you filed complaints, it would be advisable to consult with an attorney experienced in employment law. They can assess the specifics of your situation and advise you on the best course of action, which could include filing a lawsuit or a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the equivalent state agency.

Remember, each situation is unique, and legal advice should be tailored to the specific circumstances of your case. It's important to act promptly, as there are time limits for filing legal claims in these matters. An attorney can guide you through the process and help protect your rights in the workplace.

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