NORFOLK, Va. (AP) - The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has filed a lawsuit alleging that Norfolk Southern Corp. discriminated against job applicants based on real or perceived disabilities.
The lawsuit identifies 17 people who were allegedly denied employment for medical conditions that included diabetes, lymphoma, arthritis, insomnia and coronary artery disease.
In a statement, the railroad called the lawsuit meritless. A spokesman told The Virginian-Pilot that the EEOC’s position “grossly misrepresents our commitment to hiring and employing individuals with disabilities.” The spokesman said the company is confident a comprehensive assessment will demonstrate the “fairness, integrity and individualized care” in its employment processes.
The federal agency is seeking a jury trial, back pay and other compensation for those affected. It is also asking for an injunction blocking the railroad from discriminatory employment practices based on disabilities.
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