Corner Bar in Austin, Texas, has agreed to pay $42,000 to settle a lawsuit over pregnancy discrimination. The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) filed the lawsuit, which involved three companies that run Corner Bar and other hospitality businesses in the area.
The case began when a bartender at Corner Bar became visibly pregnant. According to the EEOC, shortly after her pregnancy was noticeable, the bar reduced her work hours. The situation worsened when the bartender was hospitalized for a virus. During her hospital stay, her manager called her and terminated her employment, stating that she was becoming "too much of a liability" and expressing concern that something bad might happen to her.
The EEOC claims that after her termination, Corner Bar filled her shifts with other employees, effectively removing her from the schedule. This conduct was found to violate Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which includes protections against discrimination due to pregnancy and related medical conditions.
The lawsuit was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Texas, Austin Division. As part of the settlement, which was approved by U.S. District Judge Alan D. Albright, Corner Bar will not only pay the agreed amount but also implement changes to prevent future discrimination. Over the next three years, the bar will adopt a written anti-discrimination policy, provide training for all employees, and display a notice about federal employment discrimination laws.
This case highlights the ongoing issues of workplace discrimination, particularly regarding pregnancy. The EEOC aims to ensure that employers uphold the rights of all employees, regardless of their circumstances.