In a pivotal decision, the U.S. Supreme Court has opted not to intervene in a lawsuit brought by a BASF Corp. engineer, Brian Chancey, alleging discrimination over his unvaccinated status during the pandemic. This move leaves intact a ruling by the Fifth Circuit, which concluded that Chancey’s vaccination status did not qualify as a disability under the law.
High Court Won’t Touch BASF Worker’s Vax Bias Suit : Legal Battle Unfolds
Chancey’s legal saga began with his claim that BASF unlawfully subjected him to COVID-19 precautions typically reserved for infected individuals, effectively isolating him from his colleagues. Despite his petition to the high court, which challenged the lower courts’ rulings, the Supreme Court declined to review the case.
Allegations and Rulings
In his petition, Chancey argued that both the Texas federal court and the Fifth Circuit failed to adequately address his claims of disability discrimination and retaliation. He contended that BASF’s actions violated the Americans with Disabilities Act. However, the courts upheld previous rulings, emphasizing that his unvaccinated status did not constitute a disability and that the company’s measures were in line with federal guidelines.
High Court Won’t Touch BASF Worker’s Vax Bias Suit : BASF’s Response
BASF, headquartered in Florham Park, New Jersey, maintained its stance throughout the legal proceedings. Chancey, employed as an I/E engineer in Freeport, Texas, accused the company of implementing discriminatory COVID-19 policies, which included mandatory distancing, testing, and isolation due to his vaccination status. Despite his objections, BASF defended its actions, asserting compliance with federal guidance.
Legal Landscape
This case underscores broader legal debates surrounding COVID-19 precautions and employment rights. While Chancey argued that BASF’s policies amounted to discrimination and retaliation, the courts ultimately sided with the company, citing precedent from other circuits facing similar claims.
High Court Won’t Touch BASF Worker’s Vax Bias Suit : What Lies Ahead
As the legal battle continues, Chancey remains undeterred, representing himself in the ongoing dispute. Meanwhile, BASF is being represented by legal counsel from Ogletree Deakins Nash Smoak & Stewart PC.
