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Benefits September 14, 2004
WI Firm Slapped with ADA Suit
September 14, 2004 (PLANSPONSOR.com) - Federal
officials have sued a Green Bay, Wisconsin trucking firm over
allegations it violated the Americans with Disabilities Act
in firing an employee after he fainted at his son's
wedding.
Reported by Fred Schneyer
Named as defendant in the suit filed by the US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission was Schneider National Inc., involving the firing of Jerome Hoefner in 2003, according to a Manitowoc Herald Times Reporter story. Hoefner, 54, had been driving for Schneider National for almost 14 years.
The lawsuit describes Hoefner’s fainting as an “isolated episode” that occurred in October 2002. Hoefner was placed on a medical leave until a month later, but was not allowed to return to work. He was fired on May 12, 2003, “on the basis of perceived disability,” according to the suit.
Hoefner underwent tests after he fainted in 2002. “Hoefner has never been diagnosed with cardiovascular disease, has never been placed on any medical restrictions and has never fainted again,” according to the news release.
Hoefner is currently driving for another trucking firm.