What age is specified in North Carolina General Statute 126-16 as being included in protected groups?

North Carolina General Statute 126-16 includes individuals who are 40 years of age or older in its definition of protected groups when it comes to employment discrimination. This statute is specifically designed to prevent age discrimination against employees and applicants in state government positions. The inclusion of this age threshold reflects a commitment to protecting older workers from unfair treatment in the workplace, promoting equal employment opportunities regardless of age.

The choice of 40 years and above aligns with federal laws, such as the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA), which also sets this age as a significant determinant when discussing age-related discrimination. This age benchmark demonstrates a recognition of the changing workforce demographics and the value of experienced individuals in various roles within state employment.