All in an EEOC Week
The EEOC is proud of its lawsuits. I used to be proud of mine too…until I realized thy cause more damage than good…even where there was bad conduct. According to the EEOC’s press release page these are the claims from just one week:
EEOC Sues Owner of Golden LivingCenter – Dartmouth for Disability Discrimination 3/19/12
Agricultural Supplier Olam Settles EEOC Pregnancy Discrimination Suit for $140,000 in Fresno 3/15/12
Warren Tricomi to Pay $30,000 to Settle EEOC Pregnancy Discrimination Suit 3/15/12
Hal Leonard to Pay $150,000 to Settle EEOC Sexual Harassment Charge 3/14/12
Family Video to Pay $70,000 to Settle EEOC Disability Discrimination Suit 3/14/12
Sterling and Sterling to Pay $120,000 to Settle EEOC Suit for Retaliation 3/14/12
EEOC Sues GGNSC Administrative Services For Disability Discrimination 3/13/12
Menorah House Settles EEOC Religious Discrimination Lawsuits 3/12/12
As you can see from the titles, disability and pregnancy leave have been major targets. Employers must do two things to better manage these claims: First, take disability requests and harassment complaints seriously. If you don’t know what to do, then get help. Secondly, get Employment Practices Liability Insurance. See the checklist on HR That Works. I bet every one of the companies sued that didn’t purchase it wishes it had. Also understand this – these settlements and verdicts are LESS than they would be if brought by private attorneys in state courts.
