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Through its Job Service offices, the Employment Development Department (EDD) provides services which promote equal employment opportunities for older workers.

An older worker is defined as a job seeker at least 40 years of age who encounters or expects to encounter difficulty in getting or keeping a job principally because of age.

The Federal Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967 established as national policy the elimination of arbitrary age discrimination in employment. As amended, it applies to workers who are between 40 and 70 years of age.

A California law, the Fair Employment and Housing Act, also prohibits employer discrimination against job seekers who are at least 40 years of age. But this law has no upper age limit.

To comply with these laws and to provide equitable services to older workers, EDD withholds referrals on employer job listings that contain illegal age requirements. Since EDD is not an enforcement agency, older workers who believe they have been subject to discrimination are referred to the appropriate federal or-State agency.

Employment Services for Older Workers

EDD Job Service offices throughout California provide the following services:

• Registration in EDD's automated job match system. This provides exposure and possible referral to all job openings listed with EDD for which the job seeker is qualified.
• Job development efforts with potential employers on behalf of qualified clients when no suitable jobs are listed with EDD.
• Job Search Training Workshops which impart skills to increase success in finding work.
• Employment counseling tailored to the needs of older workers.
• Information about the job market and other EDD services such as Unemployment Insurance or Disability Insurance.
• Referral to training programs or supportive services available through other public or private agencies.

Employment-related services provided to older workers are basically the same as those for other clients. Those needing additional assistance receive special attention from EDD Older Worker Consultants. They have expertise in helping to solve problems faced by older workers. The consultants maintain ties with other agencies that serve older workers, and also participate in activities that promote public awareness of older worker issues.

Each year during the second full week of March there is an intensified promotional campaign known as National Employ the Older Worker Week. California joins the rest of the nation in observing this specially designated week. While special emphasis is added during this week, EDD provides the full range of employment services to older workers throughout the year.

For more information, contact your nearest EDD Job Service office at 1131 San Felipe Road in Hollister.

Additional services for older workers are available at Experience Works Title V Senior Community Service Program and the JTPA Senior Employment Services.