Professional in Human Resources (PHR) Practice Exam 2025 - Free PHR Practice Questions and Study Guide

The correct answer identifies individuals who are covered under federal or state antidiscrimination laws as a protected class. These laws are designed to prevent discrimination based on specific characteristics such as race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, and genetic information, among others. The designation of a protected class means that individuals within these groups are afforded certain legal protections against unfair treatment in various contexts, including employment, housing, and education.

This classification is crucial because it acknowledges the historical and systemic disadvantages faced by these groups, providing them with legal recourse if they experience discrimination. The inclusion of individuals under both federal and state laws highlights the broader scope of protections, as states may have additional regulations that further expand upon those provided at the federal level.

While individuals over the age of 40 is a recognized protected category under age discrimination laws, this alone does not encompass all protected classes. All employees regardless of their background might seem inclusive but lacks the specificity needed to identify those who are actually protected under the law. Lastly, only including individuals with documented disabilities fails to recognize that numerous other groups also qualify as protected classes under antidiscrimination statutes. Thus, identifying persons covered by these laws accurately encapsulates the essence of who qualifies as a protected class.