Convenience Store Chain to Pay Settlement in HIV Case
Tennessee employers and employers all across the country are not allowed under federal law to terminate employment on the basis of gender, age, or disability. Unfortunately, many companies and businesses find ways around this federal law or just fail to comply with it completely.
In a recent case, a convenience store has agreed to pay $115,000 in order to settle a federal lawsuit that claims the store improperly fired an HIV positive bakery clerk. The lawsuit was filed last year against Maverik, Inc by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. The EEOC alleged that the company violated the Americans with Disabilities Act when it terminated employment for a clerk in 2008, two weeks after discovering he was HIV positive. The EEOC stated that the company had employed the clerk for more than three years and stated he was fired “because of an alleged fear that he should not be working around food”. The EEOC also claimed that the company did not make reasonable accommodations for the clerk.
David Hancock, general counsel for Maverik stated that the company denies its violations of law and has only agreed to the settlement in order to avoid more expenses. Hancock also stated, “Maverik’s existing policies and procedures are consistent with the decree and applicable law. Maverik firmly stands behind its policies and training that strictly prohibit discrimination.”The settlement requires Maverik to not discriminate against other people on the basis of disability. It also requires the company to provide ADA training to its workers and to its supervisors.
People all across the country and even people in Tennessee are unfortunately discriminated against because of a disability all too often. If you or someone you know feels like you have been improperly treated in the workplace because of a disability or medical condition then we strongly recommend that you contact one of our experienced and compassionate Tennessee employment and ADA attorneys immediately. We care about you and your case and will work with you to make sure you get the compensation you deserve for what you have been through.Contact us online or call us at 800.705.2121 to set up a FREE consultation to discuss your legal options.
Author Bio
Jim Higgins, founder of the Higgins Firm, is a seasoned personal injury attorney with deep roots in Nashville, Tennessee. A 4th generation Nashvillian, Jim carries on the legal legacy of his father, a judge for over 30 years. After graduating from the University of Memphis School of Law, Jim’s career began on the other side of the courtroom, defending insurance companies and learning their tactics for minimizing settlements. However, he soon realized his true calling was fighting for the rights of the injured, and for the past several years, he has exclusively represented plaintiffs in personal injury cases.
Since then, his dedication and skill have earned him membership in the prestigious Million Dollar Advocates Forum, an organization limited to attorneys who have secured million and multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for their clients. Licensed to practice in Tennessee, Kentucky, and Georgia, Jim focuses on personal injury, product liability, medical malpractice, and workers’ compensation cases. His exceptional work has been recognized by his peers, earning him a spot on the Super Lawyers list from 2021 to 2024, a distinction awarded to only a select group of accomplished attorneys in each state.
