Sex discrimination involves treating someone (a job applicant or employee) unfavorably because of that person's sex. Sex discrimination is a form of employment discrimination that violates federal law—including Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (42 U.S.C. §2000e).

In addition to these federal laws, states also have laws against sex discrimination in employment. These state laws are generally located in a state’s statutes—often in the labor code or employment-related statutes.

Discrimination against an individual because of gender identity—including transgender status or sexual orientation—is discrimination because of sex in violation of Title VII.

The law forbids discrimination when it comes to any aspect of employment, including hiring, firing, pay, job assignments, promotions, layoff, training, fringe benefits, and any other term or condition of employment.

For the regulations related to sex discrimination, see the Code of Federal Regulations, beginning with 29 CFR 1604.1.

In Arizona, sex discrimination in employment is prohibited under both federal and state laws. Federally, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 makes it illegal to discriminate based on sex in any aspect of employment, which includes hiring, firing, pay, promotions, and other terms of employment. This federal protection has been interpreted to include discrimination against an individual because of gender identity or sexual orientation. At the state level, Arizona follows these federal guidelines and enforces them through state agencies such as the Arizona Civil Rights Division (ACRD) within the Attorney General's Office. While Arizona does not have a specific state statute that explicitly prohibits sex discrimination in private employment, the ACRD investigates complaints of employment discrimination, including sex discrimination, under the Arizona Civil Rights Act. Employers in Arizona must comply with these regulations to ensure they do not engage in unlawful employment practices based on sex.