Workplace discrimination occurs when an employee, or a potential employee, is treated differently than other employees or potential employees on the basis of the person's race, sex, religion, national origin, disability, age or other protected class. The United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) investigates and rules on allegations of workplace discrimination. Employees or potential employees who believe that they have been discriminated against may also bring a case in federal or state court alleging that the employer acted in a discriminatory manner and was, therefore, in violation of a federal or state law. Employees who have been illegally discriminated against may recover back pay, compensation for pain and suffering and be reinstated to their job, if applicable.