Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964: Federal law prohibiting discrimination in employment based on race, color, religion, sex, and national origin. When writing recommendations, avoid references to these protected characteristics.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): Federal law protecting individuals with disabilities from discrimination. Recommendations should not disclose disability status or medical information unless specifically relevant and authorized.

Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA): Federal law protecting workers 40 and older from age discrimination. Avoid age-related references in recommendation letters.

State Anti-Discrimination Laws: Various state-specific laws that may provide additional protections beyond federal anti-discrimination laws. Must be considered based on the specific state jurisdiction.

Defamation Laws: Laws concerning libel (written defamation) that require all statements in recommendation letters to be truthful and factual to avoid potential legal claims.

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA): Federal law protecting the privacy of student education records. Relevant when providing recommendations that include educational information.

Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA): Federal law governing the collection and use of consumer information, including employment references. May apply to formal employment references.

State Privacy Laws: Various state-specific laws governing the protection and disclosure of personal information in employment contexts.

State Employment Reference Laws: State-specific laws governing what information can legally be shared about former employees in recommendations and references.

Professional Standards and Industry Regulations: Specific industry or professional codes of conduct that may govern how recommendations are provided within certain fields or professions.