Two federal laws prohibit discrimination in employment based on your status as a veteran or service member. Under the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act of 1994 (USERRA), you’re protected from discrimination based on your prior service in the uniformed services; current service in the uniformed services; or intent to join the uniformed services. This is regardless of whether your employer is a private employer, the federal government, a state government, or local government. You may also be protected against discrimination under the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974 (VEVRAA). If you are an employee of a federal contractor or subcontractor and meet the definition of a “protected veteran.” Additionally, under both laws, your employer is also prohibited from retaliating against you because of your attempt to enforce your rights or someone else’s rights.