New Jersey Takes Legal Action Against Amazon Over Employee Accommodations

New Jersey has sued Amazon, alleging the company illegally denied accommodations to warehouse workers who are disabled or pregnant. The lawsuit claims Amazon violated state anti-discrimination laws by not allowing reasonable requests, such as time off, and firing some who requested accommodations.

New Jersey has filed a lawsuit against Amazon, accusing the e-commerce giant of unlawfully denying workplace accommodations to warehouse employees who have disabilities or are pregnant. The state claims that Amazon routinely neglects requests for reasonable adjustments like time off or restrictions on heavy lifting, allegedly breaching state anti-discrimination legislation.

The allegations have been brought forward by the office of Democratic Attorney General Matthew Platkin and further highlight concerns over the treatment and safety of Amazon's warehouse workforce, crucial to its fast delivery operations. According to the lawsuit, workers who ask for accommodations often end up on unpaid leave or struggle to meet high productivity demands, risking termination.

The lawsuit seeks compensatory and punitive damages and calls for a reform of Amazon's employment practices. Despite similar lawsuits nationwide and an investigation by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, Amazon denies any wrongdoing and maintains its commitment to supporting its employees. The tech giant is a major employer in New Jersey, with approximately 50,000 employees across distribution and sort centers.

(With inputs from agencies.)