(a) The Legislature finds and declares all of the following:
(1) Ageism is the systematic stereotyping of, and discrimination against, persons based on age.
(2) Ageism is manifested, at both the individual and institutional levels, in a range of ways, from the perpetuation of stereotypes and myths about aging and aging people, the dislike and outright disdain of elders, and the simple subtle avoidance of contact with elders, to discriminatory practices against elders in housing, employment, and services.
(b) It is the intent of the Legislature to enact legislation to encourage the development of partnerships addressed at combating ageism in the workplace.
(Added by Stats. 2002, Ch. 541, Sec. 16. Effective January 1, 2003.)