EMPLOYMENT DISCRIMINATION IS ILLEGAL. Federal law prohibits discrimination because of RACE, COLOR, RELIGION, NATIONAL ORIGIN, SEX, AGE (40 YEARS AND OVER), AND/OR PHYSICAL OR MENTAL HANDICAP AND RETALIATION FOR PARTICIPATING IN ACTIVITIES PROTECTED BY THE CIVIL RIGHTS STATUTES. Employees or applicants for employment with NOAA who believe that they have been discriminated or retaliated against may contact an EEO Counselor. The Counselor will attempt to resolve the matter and furnish information about filing a complaint of discrimination To preserve your rights under the law, you must contact an EEO Counselor within 45 CALENDAR DAYS of the date of alleged discrimination.