This post in HR Observations (Hat tip: Ohio Employer’s Law Blog) explores whether obesity could be the next characteristic to become protected under the anti-discrimination laws. A group called the "Obesity Action Coalition" complains that discrimination against obese people is widespread. Employer concern about rising costs associated with employee health coverage, workers’ compensation costs
Does Your Company Wellness Plan Discriminate?
A recent study of Iowa employers revealed that 51 percent offered some type of health screening to their employees. Many companies also offer other "wellness" benefits to encourage employees to exercise and adopt healthy lifestyles. The wellness program of a prominent Des Moines employer was recently profiled in the Des Moines Register (link here