Discrimination lawsuits and complaints in behalf of transgender individuals against Georgia agencies have cost the state at least $4.1 million over the past 10 years, according to a recent report.
An analysis of state worker claims conducted by The Atlanta Journal-Constitution (AJC) revealed that $2.1 million has been allocated for claim settlements, and an additional $2 million has been expended on legal costs. These amounts exclude payments from private insurers or other entities that may have settled complaints against the state.
A substantial portion of the 19 claims identified by the AJC pertains to the denial of medical treatment for transgender employees, inmates or Medicaid recipients. For instance, in 2015, a transgender inmate alleged inadequate medical care and subsequently sued the Department of Corrections. The department settled by agreeing to have qualified medical and mental health professionals evaluate inmates with potential gender dysphoria — a condition characterized by distress due to a discrepancy between an individual’s gender identity and their sex assigned at birth.
These legal disputes have unfolded against a backdrop of legislative efforts by Georgia Republicans to restrict transgender rights. Proposed measures include prohibiting transgender women from participating in women’s school and college sports and banning the use of taxpayer funds — including state employee health insurance — for gender-affirming care.
Amid this landscape, it is likely that transgender discrimination claims will continue to rise, including employment-related complaints. If you believe you have suffered discrimination at your job as a transgender individual, the assistance of an experienced Georgia discrimination attorney can be invaluable in meeting the procedural requirements for pursuing a claim.
Individuals alleging discrimination in employment must navigate a specific pathway before pursuing litigation. Initially, they are required to file a charge of discrimination with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). Generally, a charge must be filed within 180 days of the discriminatory act, though certain exceptions may apply. Upon receiving a charge, the EEOC conducts an investigation to assess the validity of the claims. If the EEOC determines that there is reasonable cause to believe discrimination has occurred and is unable to secure a settlement, it may choose to file a lawsuit on behalf of the complainant. If the EEOC decides not to litigate, it issues a “Notice of Right to Sue,” granting the individual the right to file a lawsuit in federal court within 90 days.
The Reddy Law Firm, P.C. in Alpharetta provides advice and representation in disputes over all types of employment discrimination across Georgia. If you need experienced legal counsel, call 678-629-3246 or contact us online to arrange a consultation.
