How does the Civil Rights Act of 1991 amend Title VII?

The Civil Rights Act of 1991 significantly enhances the legal recourse available to individuals who believe they have been victims of employment discrimination under Title VII. One of the key provisions of this act is the allowance for trial by jury and the introduction of compensatory and punitive damages in cases of intentional discrimination. This amendment shifts the landscape of employment law by providing individuals with a more robust framework for seeking redress, thereby promoting accountability for employers.

This change reflects a broader commitment to ensuring that victims of discrimination are not only heard in court but also afforded the possibility of receiving monetary compensation that accounts for both economic and non-economic damages, such as emotional distress. Prior to this amendment, relief was mainly limited to back pay and reinstatement, making it challenging for plaintiffs to obtain greater justice in cases of severe discrimination.

The other options do not accurately describe the amendments made by the Civil Rights Act of 1991. For instance, mandatory training for all employees and requirements for equal pay are not addressed in this specific act, nor does the act eliminate the need for affirmative action—it actually upholds and reinforces affirmative action policies.