DALLAS – A Dallas federal jury recently ruled that a female employee at SkyWest Airlines endured a sexually hostile workplace, resulting in a $2 million judgement in punitive damages and $170,000 for emotional distress. The court’s decision marks a significant precedent for the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) in the Northern District of Texas, underscoring the agency’s commitment to combating workplace discrimination.
Sarah Budd, a parts clerk at the Utah-based airline, became the focal point of egregious sexual harassment by various coworkers, including a supervisor. Her colleagues made unwarranted sexual comments and coercive suggestions that she engage in prostitution. They also frequently made disturbing jokes about rape. The environment exacerbated Budd’s suffering as a previous victim of sexual assault, culminating in physical and psychological strain.
Despite multiple complaints to her immediate supervisor and the employee relations department, the harassment continued largely unaddressed. The initial investigations were superficial, lacking thorough interviews with potential witnesses and missing crucial follow-up questions. Although some disciplinary actions were promised and training was initially proposed, these measures were insufficient and ultimately aborted once Budd retired.
During the trial, the jury found SkyWest Airlines culpable of permitting a hostile work environment that contravened Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. This act serves to protect employees from discrimination based on sex and from retaliation following complaints about workplace conditions. However, the jury concluded that Budd did not face retaliation when placed on administrative leave after her complaints.
Though the jury awarded over $2 million in damages, this amount was later capped at $300,000 due to statutory limits set under Title VII for compensatory and punitive damages.
Alexa Lang, a trial attorney for the EEOC’s Dallas District Office, highlighted Budd’s long tenure of over a decade at SkyWest and her intent to retire there before the harassment began. Lang pointed out that the jury’s verdict was not only a redressal for Budd but also a stern message to employers about their accountability in maintaining a harassment-free workplace.
The legal representation for the EEOC included lead trial attorney Lang, alongside Brooke López and Ann Henry. Complementing the commission’s legal team, Budd had personal representation from Edith Thomas from the law firm Zipen, Amster, & Greenberg.
The EEOC remains steadfast in its mission to foster fair employment practices and the recent court decision is a testament to its ongoing efforts. The case serves as a critical reminder and warning to employers about the gravity of maintaining a safe and respectful workplace environment.
For more details on combating sex-based discrimination and preventing sexual harassment in the workplace, resources are available through the EEOC’s official platform.
This article was generated by Open AI and the individuals, facts, and events described may not be accurate. For corrections, retractions, or to request article removal, contact [email protected].