EAST WENATCHEE, Wash. — A jury has awarded $5 million to Brian Kniffen, a former employee of the East Wenatchee Water District, following his termination after experiencing a job-related spinal injury. The jury found that the public utility unlawfully discriminated against Kniffen and failed to provide proper accommodations required under the law.
The jury’s unanimous decision was based on four claims related to Kniffen’s treatment after his injury in 2019. His legal team argued that instead of offering necessary support to enable him to continue working, the Water District opted to terminate his employment to avoid increased insurance costs stemming from his condition.
“This case was never just about me,” Kniffen stated after the verdict. “It was about ensuring that no one else gets pushed out of a job just for getting injured and asking for help. I’m grateful to the jury for holding the Water District accountable.”
Following his injury, Kniffen requested accommodations, including limitations on heavy lifting and manual valve operations. Such restrictions were backed by the Department of Labor & Industries, which also recommended a specific tool to facilitate his work. This tool, valued at $30,000, would have been covered by the department, yet the Water District claimed that no reasonable accommodations were feasible.
Kniffen’s attorney, Beth Bloom, emphasized that the verdict validates their position that Kniffen was unjustly punished for being injured on the job. She described him as a dedicated employee with nearly three decades of service, asserting that the Water District chose profit over supporting a loyal worker.
Officials from the East Wenatchee Water District have indicated that they may appeal the jury’s ruling, but they have not provided any comments in response to the award prior to the deadline for inquiries.
Kniffen’s case underscores the importance of adhering to legal guidelines regarding workplace accommodations for employees with disabilities, a principle that is designed to protect workers’ rights and ensure fair treatment within the workplace.
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