There is no place in the state of Florida, or anywhere else in the United States, for disability discrimination. Even though there are strict state and federal laws against such activity, many employers cross the line and make a poor decision regarding an employee’s termination.
A former assistant basketball coach at Florida A&M University has filed a lawsuit against the school, claiming he was discriminated against after telling others he was dealing with multiple sclerosis. From there, he believes he was fired upon complaining about treatment.
The complaint was filed earlier this month in Leon County Court. The coach first realized that his illness may have been a problem with the school when he returned after a month-long leave of absence. It was then that the head coach asked him if he required the time off for treatment. The complaint added the following:
“At this point, it was made aware to the plaintiff that the perception of his condition was now a possible factor in his employment, despite the condition having no effect on the essential functions of this position.”
Earlier this year, the former coach filed a disability discrimination charge with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.
The man feels that the school violated the Florida Civil Rights Act of 1992, and as a result, his reputation has been damaged and he has suffered a financial loss.
Nobody should be discriminated against at his or her place of employment for a disability. When this happens, the victim often wants to learn more about his or her legal rights by speaking with an attorney.
Source: Tallahassee Democrat, “Former FAMU basketball coach sues for discrimination” Sean Rossman, Oct. 27, 2014
