The Age Discrimination Employment Act (ADEA) was established in 1967 in response to an ever growing problem of older employees being discriminated against in the workplace because of their age. It specifically protects employees who are 40 years of age or older. It is applicable in businesses where there are 20 or more employees, and governs both employment and potential employment (job applicants). This act makes it illegal to discriminate against an older employee with regard to promotion, benefits, hiring and firing, layoffs, pensions, training, job assignments and a host of other issues. The ADEA also prohibits an employer from retaliating against any employee who should have the courage to accuse an employer of age discrimination or if they should participate, in any capacity, in the litigation process of the charge.