For most people in California, their job is their livelihood. Without a way to earn a living, basic needs cannot be met. Undoubtedly, losing employment is stressful and can have far-reaching effects. However, being fired in retaliation is something that can affect an individual for the rest of his or her life.
A woman in another state was allegedly fired for taking leave for military service, causing her to file a lawsuit. According to the claim, the woman worked as an analyst for the Public Works Department for a city in another state, and was also a member of the Air National Guard. The plaintiff claimed that she was required to undergo a training program for the Guard which would require her to take a leave of two months from her job.
The plaintiff claimed she informed city officials about her military service prior to being hired. However, after she informed her supervisor of her needs, the lawsuit claimed that the plaintiff was fired in retaliation. Allegedly, city officials told the woman that she was fired due to job performance, although the plaintiff said she had no prior complaints about her performance. Reportedly, the suit was recently settled, and as part of the settlement, the city will pay the woman $45,000 in missed wages as well as retirement benefits.
In the United States, the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Act of 1994 makes it unlawful to terminate an employee for fulfilling military service obligations. Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for employers to retaliate against workers for rightfully using leave and other benefits. California residents who have faced retaliation at work may want to consider discussions with a knowledgeable employment law attorney.