Settlement Reached After Multi-Year Investigation
Microsoft has agreed to a $14.4 million settlement to resolve allegations that the company discriminated against employees who took protected leave. The agreement comes after a multi-year investigation by the California Civil Rights Department, which found that Microsoft failed to prevent discrimination against workers who used protected leave.
Discrimination Claims
The department alleged that employees who used protected leave, such as parental, disability, pregnancy, and family care taking leave, faced retaliation in the form of lower bonuses and unfavorable performance reviews. The agency claimed that Microsoft did not take sufficient action to prevent this discrimination and did not support workers when they needed time off to care for themselves or their families.
Employer Responsibilities
Employers have a responsibility to respect employees’ right to take protected leave without fear of consequences. “Whether it’s to look after a newborn child or take care of your own health, workers generally have the right to take time off without worrying about consequences at work,” said California Civil Rights Department director Kevin Kish.
Settlement Details
As part of the proposed settlement, Microsoft will take steps to prevent future discrimination, including updated manager training and monitoring by an outside consultant. Eligible employees will receive a base payment of $1,500, with more available based on factors such as salary and length of employment. The company has around 221,000 employees worldwide, including nearly 7,000 in California.
Conclusion
The settlement marks a significant step towards addressing allegations of discrimination at Microsoft. As one of the world’s largest employers, it is crucial that companies like Microsoft prioritize supporting their employees’ well-being and protecting their rights. The agreement serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting employees’ protected leave and promoting a fair and inclusive workplace culture.
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