Oregon Workers to Receive Historic $2.4 Million Settlement with Daimler Trucks

Thursday, January 29, 2015

Briauna Skye McKizzie, GoLocalPDX Contributor

On Thursday, Labor Commissioner Brad Avakian, announced that Oregon workers will a $2.4 million settlement, the largest amount to be awarded in Bureau of Labor and Industries (BOLI) history.

The settlement is a result of complaints filed last year by six former employees of Portland Truck Manufacturing Plant in regards to discriminatory acts committed against employees and settles a complaint filed against Daimler Trucks filed Avakian, according to Charlie Burr.

After receiving the complaints, BOLI investigators conducted interviews with sixty current and former Daimler employees.

The investigation led to the agreement - that compensates employees for injuries and ensures a discrimination-free workplace for existing and current employees.

The proceeds of the settlement will go to former employees Harold Lathan, Terence Edwards, Ron Burley, Sean Tomkin, Leneld Hammond, Kerry Barker.

The settlement also includes complainant attorney fees and a fund for future complaints.

In addition to the $2.4 million, employees will receive these non-monetary compensations:

1)   A civil rights complaint hotline for employees
2)   Supervisor logbooks for future complaints
3)   Mandatory training for supervisors that will be sponsored by BOLI or a BOLI-approved entity
4)   Training for managers to conduct investigations on future incidents

“It’s difficult for any worker to step forward in the face of a hostile work environment – and I’m pleased that our agency was able help the parties achieve a just and fair outcome,” said Labor Commissioner Brad Avakian.

For more information about BOLI’s efforts to protect employee’s rights and career development, visit this website.