
Texas Roadhouse, a popular nationwide steakhouse chain, will reportedly settle an age discrimination lawsuit for $12 million. In addition to settling the lawsuit financially, Texas Roadhouse has also agreed to change hiring practices. With 420 locations across 48 states, and four international locations, this age discrimination lawsuit has far-reaching effects.
Read on to learn more about the lawsuit and what you can do if you experience discrimination in the workplace. If you believe you are a victim of discrimination due to your age, contact Daic Law today to speak with our labor and employment attorney about protecting your rights.
Age Discrimination Lawsuit
In 2011, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) filed the lawsuit against Texas Roadhouse claiming that the restaurant chain denied front-of-house positions to applicants 40 years of age and older. Front-of-house positions denied to these applicants include host, server, server assistant, and bartender positions. The lawsuit claimed that Texas Roadhouse discriminated against a number of applicants between 2007 and 2014. Reports have not identified how many people have come forward or filed complaints.
The case went to trial early in 2017, but the jury was hung. A retrial was scheduled for May 2017, when a judge approved a consent decree to resolve the case. Under the consent decree, victims of age discrimination involving Texas Roadhouse will have three and a half years to contact the EEOC. During this time, the court will identify and compensate victims. The $12 million settlement amount will be divided up among victims.
Changing Policies to Protect Diversity
In addition to paying out $12 million to the victims, Texas Roadhouse is required to appoint a Diversity Director and a Decree-Compliance Monitor. The Decree-Compliance Monitor will ensure that Texas Roadhouse complies with the terms of the consent decree. The Diversity Director will oversee required changes in policy and practice. Texas Roadhouse is required to promote a diverse workplace, and must increase recruitment of employees age 40 and older for the front-of-house positions previously denied to this demographic.
Have You Experienced Discrimination?
Discrimination and diversity are two extremely important concepts in today’s business environment. Unfortunately, not all businesses operate within the law when it comes to hiring, training, or compensating their employees. If you are a victim of discrimination, contact Daic Law to learn more about your legal rights. We can help if you are suffering discrimination or harassment due to your:
- Age
- Race
- Gender
- Sexual orientation
- Pregnancy
- Religion
- Disability
Contact Daic Law to learn more about your legal rights. Daic Law understands the toll that discrimination takes on you and your family. Our passion is helping victims of discrimination stand up for their rights and the pursuit of justice. Contact us today by calling 877-893-6040 or by filling out our online form.
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