Final answer:
The qualification requirements set by the employer and the job duties associated with the position, along with federal anti-discrimination laws, are principal factors in determining exempt or nonexempt status.
Step-by-step explanation:
A principal factor in determining whether a given position will be exempt or nonexempt is the qualification requirements set by the employer and the job duties associated with the position.
In the United States, federal anti-discrimination laws administered by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) also play a role in determining exempt or nonexempt status.
These laws prohibit employers from discriminating against job applicants or employees based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, national origin, age (40 or older), disability, or genetic information.