Which of the following is an example of a protected class?

The selection of people over 40 years of age as a protected class is accurate because the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) of 1967 specifically prohibits discrimination against individuals in this age group. This law was enacted to protect older workers from discrimination based on their age in hiring, promotions, terminations, and any other employment-related decisions. Therefore, individuals over 40 are recognized as a protected class, ensuring that they have equal employment opportunities regardless of their age.

In contrast, the choice regarding all employees in the workforce does not specify any particular demographic or characteristic that would be considered a protected class under federal laws. Similarly, individuals with managerial roles are not a protected class; job title or position itself does not confer specific legal protections. The option referring to workers only in private sectors is also not accurate, as protected classes are defined more broadly and can include individuals in both private and public sectors. Thus, the choice correctly identifying people over 40 as a protected class aligns well with established employment discrimination laws.