EEOC files ADA suit against Target store
Ann Merrill
Star Tribune
Published Sep 7 2001
The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission has
filed a lawsuit against the Target store in Bemidji, alleging the
discount retailer violated the Americans with Disabilities Act
(ADA).
Based on a complaint filed in June 1998 and a subsequent
investigation, the suit alleges that employee Suzanne
Stombaugh was transferred, denied reasonable
accommodation and demoted after she disclosed she had
multiple sclerosis.
Stombaugh initially worked in a management position in what
the company calls 'softline' departments, such as clothing. She
was transferred to a position that required more strenuous work
throughout the store. She objected to the transfer and
eventually went on a leave of absence. Ultimately, she moved
to another Target store, where she now works.
'We will be reviewing the situation, but have nothing to add at
this time,' said Doug Kline, spokesman for Minneapolis-based
Target Corp., which has 1,019 Target stores. He said the
company has a policy of not commenting on pending litigation.
The suit against Target also alleges that the retailer violated
the ADA's confidentiality provision by disclosing Stombaugh's
disability to Bath & Body Works in Bemidji during a reference
check when Stombaugh applied for a job there. A separate suit
has been filed against Bath & Body Works, which did not hire
Stombaugh.
-- Ann Merrill is at
amerrill@startribune.com .
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