Employers in Nevada must conform to these state rules relating to the employment relationship.
Employer means an employer of 15 or more employees for each working day in each of 20 or more calendar weeks in the current or preceding calendar year, but does not include a private membership club that is exempt from taxation under the tax code.
Also not covered are religious corporations, associations or societies with respect to the employment of individuals of a particular religion to perform work connected with the carrying on of its religious activities.
Employers may not discriminate in their hiring or employment practices against employees or job applicants on the basis of the individuals':
Use of lawful substances. Employment discrimination on the basis of an applicant's use of lawful substances, such as tobacco, outside the course of employment is also prohibited.
Service animals. An employer may not refuse to permit an employee with a visual or aural disability to keep a service animal with him or her at all times in the place of employment.
Whistle-blower provisions. An employee is protected against employer retaliation when the employee opposes an unlawful practice or when the employee testifies, participates in a proceeding, makes a charge, or otherwise assists in an investigation, proceeding or hearing relating to an unlawful practice. Whistle-blower coverage includes unlawful practices involving employment discrimination, occupational safety and health, and medical facilities with regard to care.
Nurses. Registered nurses, licensed practical nurses or nursing assistants who are employed by or contracted to provide nursing services who report that they do not possess the knowledge, skills or experience with an assignment to provide nursing services to a patient or who refuse to provide services because of lack of knowledge, skills or experience are also protected from retaliation or discrimination.
Domestic partnerships. Domestic partnerships are legalized in Nevada. Discrimination against domestic partners is prohibited, but employers are not required to provide health care benefits to or for the domestic partner of an officer or employee.
Gender identity or expression. It is illegal for employers to fire, fail to hire, or otherwise discriminate against individuals on the basis of gender identity or expression.
Use of consumer credit information. Effective October 1, 2013, employers are prohibited from conditioning the employment of an employee or prospective employee on his or her consumer credit report or other credit information. There is an exception for information contained in the credit report that is reasonably related to the position of employment.
Social media privacy. Effective October 1, 2013, Nevada prohibits employers from conditioning employment on access to an employee’s personal social media account information.
Nevada discrimination law posters are available and may be posted in a conspicuous place.