Arizona-based HonorHealth settles discrimination lawsuit for nearly $2 million
Scottsdale-based HonorHealth will pay $1.75 million to settle a discrimination lawsuit involving former employees of the nonprofit health system.
In 2020, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission sued HonorHealth on behalf of employees with disabilities. They claimed they were repeatedly denied reasonable accommodations to perform their jobs, like assistive devices, modified work schedules and reassignment.
Federal law requires employers to provide reasonable accommodation or reassign employees to another job if there’s an opening and they’re qualified. The EEOC alleged Honor Health forced employees out of their jobs.
In a press release, Mary Jo O’Neill, regional attorney of the EEOC’s Phoenix District Office, said, “Individuals with disabilities are a vital part of the workforce. We are very pleased that HonorHealth has resolved this matter and that they have reaffirmed their commitment to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act and EEOC guidance on the ADA.”
As part of the agreement, HonorHealth will pay $1.75 million to former employees who sought reasonable accommodations in the past. The EEOC said HonorHealth will review and update their policies to ensure they comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and EEOC guidance and provide training to its employees.
In a statement to KJZZ, HonorHealth said:
"HonorHealth is committed to complying with all employment laws, supporting our employees and providing a respectful and inclusive place to work.
Throughout the litigation process with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), HonorHealth has contended, and does so today, that it complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) policies and accommodates employees’ needs as required under the law.
We are pleased we could resolve this case through a settlement agreement and without the EEOC requiring a consent decree. Our focus will continue to be providing a safe and supportive environment for our employees and patients to work and to heal."
