THE STATE OF NORTH CAROLINA EEO POLICY
The State of North Carolina recognizes that an effective and efficient government requires the talents, skills and abilities of all qualified and available individuals, and seeks opportunities to promote diversity and inclusion at all occupational levels of State government’s workforce through equal employment opportunity (EEO) workforce planning initiatives. The State is committed to ensuring the administration and implementation of all human resources policies, practices and programs are fair and equitable without unlawful discrimination, harassment or retaliation on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, ethnicity, sex, pregnancy, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age (40 or older), political affiliation, National Guard or veteran status, genetic information, or disability. State agencies, departments and universities shall be accountable for administering all aspects of employment, including hiring, dismissal, compensation, job assignment, classification, promotion, reduction-in-force, training, benefits and any other terms and conditions of employment in accordance with federal and State EEO laws.
This policy provides protection for current State employees, former State employees and applicants applying for employment with North Carolina State Government.

Based on the text above, what classes of individuals are protected within this policy?