Machinery Dealer Defeats Worker’s FMLA Claims at Sixth Circuit

A former field technician failed to convince a federal appeals court to revive his Family and Medical Leave Act claims against a construction and heavy equipment dealer that fired him over performance issues.

Daniel Paris didn’t show he was fired in retaliation for asking about FMLA leave when he began experiencing anxiety and stress related to his fear of termination, the US Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit held Thursday.

In analyzing the claim, the appeals court clarified its stance that a worker’s inquiries about FMLA leave are protected activity even if the worker ultimately doesn’t request the time ...