News Summary
Tim Duerr, a resident of Lexington County, has been awarded $1.19 million by a jury in a disability discrimination case against Richland County. This ruling highlights crucial employee rights under the Americans with Disabilities Act, illustrating the ongoing challenges faced by employees with disabilities. Duerr’s case stems from multiple health issues and unjust terminations following his injury and during the pandemic. The verdict is seen as a significant victory for workplace equality and accountability.
Victorious Verdict: Lexington County Man Takes Home $1.19 Million in Disability Discrimination Case
In a commendable turn of events, a jury has awarded Tim Duerr, a Lexington County resident, a staggering $1.19 million after a ruling on a disability discrimination case against Richland County. The jury’s decision, solidified by a March 31 court ruling, highlights the ongoing struggle for employee rights, particularly under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Family and Medical Leave Act.
The Background Story
Duerr’s case centers around allegations stating that he faced discrimination due to his disabilities. It’s a story that begins with a mix of injuries and medical challenges. As a proud six-year veteran of the U.S. Navy, Duerr has been diagnosed with several health issues, including high blood pressure, arthritis in his left ankle, diabetes, and irregular heart rhythms.
The journey took a serious turn back on July 24, 2019, when Duerr suffered a torn tendon in his right arm while assisting his supervisor, which required surgery and left him with permanent impairment. Following this injury, Duerr filed a workers’ compensation claim, which eventually resulted in a settlement in the summer of 2020. This was just the beginning of the legal wrangling that was to follow.
The COVID-19 Complication
Come the pandemic, like many others, Duerr needed to adapt. While coworkers were being encouraged to return to the office, he sought an ADA accommodation to work from home, which was granted. However, the situation took a back seat on January 4, 2021, when Duerr contracted COVID-19. This unfortunate turn of events led him to take two weeks of medical leave but he returned to work remotely and continued to meet performance expectations.
However, just a week after his return, the news broke. During a Zoom meeting, Duerr learned that his position was being eliminated. He was given encouragement to apply for a new marketing role but was later informed through the legal complaints process that this position was non-existent as part of the county’s economic development strategy.
Double Trouble: Unjust Terminations
Duerr faced an uphill battle, with his access to the county server cut off immediately during the termination meeting. Following this, he was reinstated but under the condition that he would take on marketing duties. However, the saga continued, and on February 25, 2021, Duerr faced a second termination via another Zoom meeting. This second firing was couched in comments he had made regarding the first dismissal and communications related to county administration. His attorneys argue that this treatment was unjust and rooted in unfounded reasons.
A Significant Legal Victory
With the jury’s verdict of 1.19 million dollars in his favor, Duerr’s attorneys have hailed the ruling as an important victory for employee rights, emphasizing the need for employers to adhere to both federal and state laws. They believe this case sets a precedent that underscores the need for accountability in workplaces.
Moving Forward
Duerr has expressed gratitude for the jury’s ruling, recognizing its importance not just for himself, but also for his family. This strong verdict may serve as a reminder that accountability matters in the workplace, ensuring that no one is unjustly discriminated against due to their health conditions.
While the allegations are serious, the response from Richland County officials has been muted, adhering to standard employment practice of not commenting on such matters. As this case showcases the intersection of health, rights, and workplace integrity, it also goes on to remind everyone about the vital importance of standing up for what is right.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Columbia Missourian: Disability Rights Legislative Day
- WIS TV: New Columbia Coffee Shop Employment
- Columbia Spectator: Support for Disabled Students
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Americans with Disabilities Act
- Google Search: Disability Discrimination
Author: STAFF HERE Chapin
CHAPIN STAFF WRITER The CHAPIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREchapin.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chapin, Lexington County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Chapin Christmas Parade, Fourth of July Celebration, and the Chapin Fall Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chapin Chamber of Commerce and the Lexington School District One, plus leading businesses in retail and recreation that power the local economy such as Lake Murray Tourism and the Chapin Visitor Information. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
