Certified Nurse Manager and Leader (CNML) Practice Test

What significant element did the Civil Rights Act of 1991 address?

1. Protection of whistleblower rights

2. Compensatory damages for discrimination

3. Guaranteeing minimum wage for employees

4. Employer flexibility in job requirements

The correct answer is: Compensatory damages for discrimination

The Civil Rights Act of 1991 significantly addressed compensatory damages for individuals who experienced discrimination in the workplace. This legislation was a response to the Supreme Court's decision in a case that had limited the ability of employees to obtain damages for discriminatory employment practices. By introducing compensatory damages, the Act empowered employees by allowing them to seek redress not just for lost wages and benefits but also for non-economic losses such as emotional distress and pain and suffering that can stem from discriminatory actions in employment. The Act enhanced enforcement provisions for individuals who filed claims of job discrimination and also allowed for jury trials in these cases, strengthening the legal framework aimed at combating discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. This aspect of the Civil Rights Act of 1991 played a crucial role in providing greater protection and remedies for employees facing discrimination, making it a pivotal moment in civil rights legislation related to employment.