Michigan

$12 Million Awarded to Michigan Woman Fired Over Vaccine Refusal on Religious Grounds

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Detroit, MI — A federal jury has awarded a Catholic woman $12 million after she was dismissed by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan for not complying with the company’s COVID-19 vaccination mandate on grounds of religious belief. This landmark decision has sparked widespread attention due to its implications on religious accommodation in the workplace. Lisa Domski, a remote worker at Blue Cross for many years, was terminated in January 2022 after her application for a religious exemption was refused. The denial led to legal action which has culminated in a multi-million dollar verdict against … Read more

University of Michigan Faces Lawsuit Over Alleged Delay in Faculty Raises, Claims $2.5 Million Yearly Underpayment

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Ann Arbor, MI — The University of Michigan is facing a lawsuit alleging it failed to properly compensate around 3,600 faculty members by delaying their annual raises, leading to a significant underpayment over the years. The legal challenge was recently lodged at the Michigan Court of Claims by UM sociology professor Fatma Müge Göçek, who is represented by Sommers Schwartz PC. The law firm is pressing for a class-action status to benefit faculty across UM’s campuses in Ann Arbor, Flint, and Dearborn. The core of the complaint is tied to the university’s timing in implementing … Read more

Michigan Renters Rally for Legislative Relief Amid Soaring Rent Costs and Housing Inequities

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Lansing, Michigan – As rents in Michigan continue to rise, burdening many tenants, state legislators are facing heightened pressure to adopt a set of bills aimed at providing relief to renters. According to recent data, the average cost of renting in the state has seen an increase of 4.7% in the last year. This surge in rental costs is affecting over half of Michigan renters, forcing them to spend more than 30% of their monthly income on housing. The proposed legislative package addresses several aspects of the rental market, including anti-discrimination measures that would prevent … Read more

Michigan Judge Dismisses Lawsuit to Halt Recount in Tight Calhoun County State Representative Race

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Calhoun County, Michigan — A legal effort to halt the recount of ballots in a tight legislative race in Calhoun County was dismissed by a judge. The lawsuit was initiated by Republican candidate Steve Frisbie, who is contending for the state representative position in Michigan’s 44th District against the current Democratic incumbent, Rep. Jim Haadsma. The issue prompting the recount arose after an error was identified by the County Clerk in the processing of absentee ballots. The discovery occurred after official canvassers had already started certifying the results. They were in the midst of reconciling … Read more