The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has filed another suit for employment discrimination which could end up costing the employer hundreds of thousands of dollars. The suit filed by the EEOC against Chesapeake Health System is on behalf of a former employee who claims disability discrimination and retaliation when she sought federal relief.
The civil suit alleges the health care company “failed to provide a reasonable accommodation, fired, and later refused to rehire a pulmonary function technologist because of her disability and in retaliation for her requesting an accommodation and complaining about discrimination,” according to a news release issued Friday by the EEOC.
The former employee, Deborah Ropiski was:
- A long-time employee
- Sought transfers which were denied
- Sought a rehire for a vacant position which was denied
- Had consistent positive performance reports
- Received positive patient feedback
And given the former employee’s efforts, the outcome of the lawsuit may turn in her favor.
Employment discrimination carries serious penalties
Under anti-discrimination laws, an employer who is found liable for employment discrimination can be made to pay damages and provide injunctive relief to the injured party and penalties may include:
- Back pay (compensation for lost wages due to discrimination)
- Front pay (money to compensate the employee for future wages)
- Injunctive relief (reinstatement or promotion)
- Court costs, and legal fees
- Out of pocket costs
Depending on the case, the plaintiff may also be entitled to damages for pain and suffering as well as punitive damages.
Don’t end up in court—talk to an experienced NY employment law attorney
If an employee has brought a discrimination complaint against you to the EEOC, you need to speak to an experienced attorney immediately. An attorney can explain your legal options and help you determine the best way to proceed. To discuss discrimination or any other employment matters contact a NY employment defense law attorney today to learn the legal remedies available in your situation.