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Comprehensive guide to Massachusetts employment law covering discrimination protections, wage laws, paid family leave, and worker rights.
Massachusetts provides strong worker protections with broad anti-discrimination laws, generous paid family and medical leave, and robust wage and hour requirements. Understanding your rights is essential for Massachusetts workers.
Quick Facts: Massachusetts Employment Law
| Topic | Massachusetts | Federal |
|---|---|---|
| Discrimination Law | Chapter 151B (6+ employees) | Title VII (15+) |
| Minimum Wage | $15.00/hour | $7.25/hour |
| Paid Family Leave | Yes (PFML) | No |
| Paid Sick Leave | Yes (40 hours) | No |
| Filing Deadline | 300 days (MCAD) | 300 days (EEOC) |
Key Massachusetts Protections
Chapter 151B (Anti-Discrimination)
Covers employers with 6+ employees:
- Race, color, national origin
- Religion, sex
- Sexual orientation, gender identity
- Age (40+)
- Disability
- Military service
- Genetic information
Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML)
Generous paid leave program:
- Up to 26 weeks combined leave
- 12 weeks family leave
- 20 weeks medical leave
- Wage replacement (up to cap)
Earned Sick Time
- 40 hours per year
- All employers
- 1 hour per 30 hours worked
Wage and Hour Laws
Minimum Wage
$15.00/hour (2026)
Overtime
- Time-and-a-half after 40 hours
- Some Sunday/holiday premium pay
Filing Complaints
MA Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD)
Phone: 617-994-6000 Website: mass.gov/mcad
EEOC Boston Area Office
Phone: 1-800-669-4000
Related Resources
- Massachusetts Wrongful Termination
- Massachusetts Workplace Discrimination
- Massachusetts Workers' Compensation
- Boston Employment Law
Legal Disclaimer
This guide provides general information about Massachusetts employment law and is not legal advice. For advice about your situation, consult a licensed Massachusetts employment attorney.
Official Resources:
- MCAD: mass.gov/mcad{rel="nofollow"} | 617-994-6000
- EEOC: eeoc.gov{rel="nofollow"} | 1-800-669-4000
Frequently Asked Questions
What is chapter 151B (Anti-Discrimination)?
What is paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML)?
What is earned Sick Time?
What is minimum Wage?
What is mA Commission Against Discrimination (MCAD)?
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