EEOC Settles Americans With Disabilities Lawsuit For $30,000
Riverstone Residential, a property management firm settled a discrimination lawsuit with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission ("EEOC") on behalf of former employee Shaun Oldridge for $30,000. Oldridge suffers from bipolar disorder and was hospitalized due to his condition. Even though Oldridge notified his employer about being in the hospital, the company fired him. At previous times during his employment, Oldridge asked for time off for medical reasons and was refused.
The lawsuit was filed under the Americans With Disabilities Act ("ADA") which prohibits companies from discriminating against employees who have medical conditions which fall under the Act. Oldridge said “I think what they did was inappropriate and unethical." I couldn't agree more and obviously, the company realized what they did was wrong and settled this case. It was nice to see Oldridge stand up for himself and take on this company. There are many rights available to employees even in states like Illinois which are right to work states.
EEOC Regional Attorney Mary Jo O’Neill said, “People with disabilities are an untapped resource that employers should utilize."
Illinois is tough on employees because it is a right to work state but there are still many state and federal laws that protect employees. Knowing these rights is difficult and they change periodically. My office can help you determine your employment rights and make sure you are protected.
