Blog#7132020EEOC-2
EEOC Sues a Conroe Hospital for Retaliation
HOUSTON – The Woodlands Psychiatry and Counseling Company, a hospital in Conroe, Texas, violated federal law when it fired an employee for making a discrimination charge to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), the federal agency announced today.
Such alleged conduct violates Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits employers from retaliating against employees for complaining about discrimination. The EEOC filed suit in U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas, Houston Division (Civil Action No. 4:20-cv-02275) on June 29 after first attempting to reach a pre-litigation settlement through its conciliation process.
The federal agency is seeking a permanent injunction prohibiting The Woodlands Psychiatry and Counseling Company from engaging in any future retaliation. The EEOC also seeks back pay with pre-judgment interest, compensatory and punitive damages for the discharged employee, and other relief.
Retaliation Notes
Employer Coverage
- 15 or more employees under Title VII and ADA
- 20 or more employees under ADEA
- Virtually all employers under EPA
Time Limits
- 180 days to file a charge (may be extended by state laws)
- Federal employees have 45 days to contact an EEO Counselor
Resources
EEOC Houston District 7/13/20 news bulletin
Heidi Macomber 