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The Great EEOC Roundup: February Edition


As always, there are some recent EEOC cases that jump out at me when I review recent developments on that front.  Below are a few recent EEOC cases and settlements that stand out:


Dollar General Settles EEOC Sexual Harassment Claim

The EEOC filed a sexual harassment claim against Dollar General as a result of a store manager in Dollar General's Bull Shoals, Arkansas store that began sexually harassing female employees shortly after his transfer to that store.  The alleged harassment included comments and requests for sexual favors.  Even though at least one employee called the corporate hotline and also complained to an assistant manager about the harassment, Dollar General failed to take action to stop the manager's conduct.

Dollar General settled for $27,500 and agreed to provide sexual harassment and retaliation training for store managers and assistant managers.

EEOC Press Release:  http://eeoc.gov/eeoc/newsroom/release/2-4-14.cfm


JP Morgan Chase Settles EEOC Sexual Discrimination Claim

In this case, the EEOC filed a sexual discrimination claim against JP Morgan Chase and alleged a variety of unlawful actions.  Of note, the situations complained of involved sexually charged behavior and comments from the supervisory staff and participating mortgage bankers, which resulted in an alleged sexist and uncivil atmosphere.  The EEOC also alleged that the female mortgage bankers who did not embrace and participate in these circumstances were ostracized and suffered economic consequences by way of being deprived of lucrative sales calls, being deprived of training opportunities, and being denied other benefits of employment.

JP Morgan settled for $1,450,00.00 which is to be split among sixteen female workers 

EEOC Press Release:  http://eeoc.gov/eeoc/newsroom/release/2-3-14.cfm


Extended Stay Hotels Settles EEOC Pay Discrimination Claim

The EEOC alleged that Extended Stay Hotels had paid a female worker, Latoya Weaver, a lower wage than similarly situated male workers.  In fact, the EEOC further alleged that Extended Stay Hotels had paid other female workers a lower wage than their male counterparts who performed equal work.  Under Title VII and the Equal Pay Act, employers are prohibited from discriminating in compensation because of a person's gender.

Extended Stay Hotels settled for $75,800 and provide "significant equitable relief."

EEOC Press Release:  http://eeoc.gov/eeoc/newsroom/release/2-19-14.cfm

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