Starbucks reaches settlement with Kent worker (disability discrimination and union activity)

[Omaha Steve]

http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/businesstechnology/2003765562_bizbriefs28.html

Starbucks reaches settlement with Kent worker

Starbucks

Mark Tutalo, the former Kent roasting-plant worker who sued Starbucks for disability discrimination and retaliation for his union activity, has settled with the company, according to his attorney and Starbucks. Neither side would give details or say whether money was exchanged.

The lawsuit originated in early 2006 and sought back pay, potential future earnings, attorney fees and other damages. It was scheduled to go to trial in King County Superior Court next month.

Earlier this month, Starbucks agreed to pay $85,000 to settle a disability-discrimination lawsuit filed in 2006 by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission after the company fired a Seattle barista with bipolar disorder. Starbucks did not admit wrongdoing.

Starbucks