Workers today have more rights than ever before. One area where workers are getting more protection is discrimination.

Employees should know the new protections they have against many kinds of discrimination that could not be remedied a few years ago, but are now illegal.

Some things a company cannot use against a worker in making a decision about hiring, firing or promoting, or other job-related actions or policies, include his or her:

Racial or ethnic group or country or origin; sex, age or religion; marital status; if he or she has a disability.

There are general categories. Specific laws vary from state to state. Also, it is illegal for a company to harass workers in a sexual way.

If you believe you are the victim of illegal harassment or discrimination, talk to your lawyer about it. Your lawyer may be able to communicate with the company to correct the situation and can advise you if you have a more serious claim.