Regional variations in employment discrimination claims: the impact of environmental factors

Purpose This study aims to examine geographic variations in the number and types of employment discrimination charges filed with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), including those based on race, sex, age and disability. This study introduces a generalized model, incorporating unique individual variables, to analyze how state-level environmental factors such as economic conditions, education levels, employment patterns and political dynamics shape both the frequency and nature of these cases across the USA. Design/methodology/approach Using a ten-year sample of EEOC filings (2012–2021) alleging workplace discrimination involving race, sex, age and disability claims, the authors used a paired comparison method to test individual variables emblematic of four major environmental factors. The authors then selected the superior variables to create a general claims model used in regressions of each state’s number of protected class EEOC claims. Findings The study highlights significant variations in the number and type of EEOC charges across different states while also identifying key environmental factors that influence these disparities (economic conditions, educational attainment, unemployment rates and political climate). It advances a general claims model to explain variation in general and with specific protected class charges. Research limitations/implications The reliance on state-level data may obscure significant intrastate variations, particularly those with diverse demographics and economic conditions. Furthermore, EEOC data does not report all the incidents of employment discrimination as many are never reported/filed. Practical implications Managers should note the factors within their states that seemingly contribute to the rise/fall of EEOC claims and contemplate how these factors may impact their organizations. Originality/value This study developed an original statistically significant model, using distinctive environmental variables related to the number and type of EEOC employment discrimination claims filed across the USA. It is also the first to individually examine cross-sectional differences by state regarding race, sex, age and disability claims.