Opinion ID: 852644
Heading Depth: 3
Heading Rank: 1

Heading: ADEA Enforcement Mechanisms and Remedies

Text: The ADEA has two primary enforcement mechanisms. Under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) provisions incorporated by reference into the ADEA, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) can bring suit on behalf of an aggrieved individual for injunctive and monetary relief. 29 U.S.C. § 626(b). The incorporated FLSA provisions, in concert with section 626(c) of the ADEA, also authorize private civil actions for such legal or equitable relief as will effectuate the purposes of this Act. Id. at § 626(b), (c). A private civil action may not be commenced until 60 days after a charge of discrimination has been filed with the EEOC, [2] and if the EEOC exercises its discretion to bring suit, no private suit may be brought unless the aggrieved individual has already filed a private action. Id. at § 626(c)(1), (d). Whether the plaintiff is a private individual or the EEOC, if a trial court finds a violation of the ADEA, the statute authorizes the court to grant such legal or equitable relief as may be appropriate including without limitation judgments compelling employment, reinstatement or promotion, or enforcing the liability for amounts owing to a person as a result of a violation of the Act. Id. at § 626(b). Liquidated damages are payable only for willful violations of the Act. Id.