Bimbo Bakeries. Is There Something in the Name?
Bimbo Bakeries appears to have acted in “bimbo fashion.” In another, “you’ve got to be kidding HR case,” a California jury awarded a former delivery driver $2 million in punitive damages and $340,700 for economic loss and emotional distress. The driver had been fired less than 1 hour after she had informed her supervisor of her pregnancy and that she could no longer lift over 20 pounds. A judge also awarded her $1.06 million in attorney’s fees. You just can’t make this stuff up. [Lopez v Bimbo Bakeries USA, Cal. Super. Ct.]
Stray Dog Triggers FMLA Leave?
The 7th Circuit Court of Appeals has found that a receptionist who was fired for missing work could continue with her Family and Medical Leave Act claim. She had had a severe emotional and physical response to a stray dog that had entered her work area, began yelling and swearing at supervisors and complained of physical problems that forced her to go home. She was treated for stress, missed days of work but never submitted a medical certification as requested by the company, just a doctor’s note authorizing return to work. The employee had had no previous disciplinary problems and had worked for the company for 8 years. The Court found that the employee could continue with her case because “her behavior was so bizarre that it amounted to constructive notice of the need for leave.” [Stevenson v. Hyre Electric Co., 7th Cir]