Sketchy application

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I picked up an application from a local business, and noticed something about it was kind of off. It asked some strange questions, but the one that stood out to me was "Marital Status" which I knew to be illegal. I looked into it further and found 3 other things that are illegal to ask (and one other that was at least sketchy), including "are you disabled?".

I asked my dad about it, and his response was "aw it's a small business, the owner probably doesn't know any better" and "just answer the damn questions it's not gonna hurt you".

My big concern is, if this employer can't even consider employee rights or laws during the application process, what sort of things would they try to get away with if I were to actually get an interview or a job? I'm not sure I even want to work for a company like that.

Should I even bother to fill out the rest of the application or turn it in? I'm not really sure of the appropriate action to take here.

http://www.admin.mtu.edu/hro/forms/whatyoucanandcantasklongversionmay05.pdf

It is illegal. I wouldn't apply there.

I second that. In Canada at least it's illegal to ask those questions unless they tell you to voluntary self-identify as disabled or a visible minority. Martial status and age can't be asked except to ask if you meet the legal requirement (i.e. bars) and for another example while you can ask about a criminal record , you can't ask about arrests or pardoned convictions.

Reading that link, I find it interesting that it's illegal to ask for a photograph. Many jobs in Canada require a photo and I had to be photographed before my application was approved at my first job.

Interesting in that front. I have had several screening telephone interviews where i was asked my martial status. I know that is illegal but truthfully answered that i am single. Might be a reason i never got past that stage.

People go to specialized schools to understand employment law, a small business owner is fighting to keep their business afloat.

I would say that they probably just don't' know.