The new year and new administration has brought with it a host of changes in the legal landscape of doing business and operating as a consumer. Among the new bills being debated in the current legislative season is a bill recently approved by the U.S. House that seeks to restrict the freedoms of individuals or groups to sue a company. Unfortunately, this may be a significant setback for those with legitimate workplace discrimination claims.
The bill is framed as a way to reduce a burden on businesses by doing away with frivolous class-action lawsuits that create big paydays for attorneys and invite anyone to sue a company for just about any reason. However, the reality of the matter is that it erodes valuable rights of employees and consumers.
If passed, the bill may institute more barriers to those who wish to sue a company. While frivolous lawsuits do happen, it is often companies who violate the rights of consumers and employees whose only reasonable recourse is to sue the company and use the strength of the law in their favor. By making it more difficult to sue a company, many employees who experienced discrimination, for example, may have fewer rights in the workplace — a major step backwards for civil rights.
If you believe that you have experienced discrimination in the workplace, it is important to consult with an attorney who understands the nuances of workplace discrimination law. Proper legal counsel can help you evaluate your experience and understand how the law may be used in your favor to fight for justice.
Source: The Indiana Lawyer, “US House passes bill to restrict legal claims against companies,” March 10, 2017
