Eastman Chemical Settles Former Employee’s Disability Bias Suit

Eastman Chemical Co. settled allegations that it discriminated and retaliated against an employee who was diagnosed with bilateral carpal tunnel syndrome.

The parties on Wednesday filed a joint stipulation to dismiss Joshua Canipe’s claims with prejudice in the US District Court for the Eastern District of Tennessee. Canipe underwent surgery after his diagnosis, and his medical provider temporarily restricted him from lifting, pushing, or pulling more than 10 pounds at work. The restrictions prevented Canipe from performing his primary duties as an entry-level baling operator, and he alleged Eastman rejected his requests for reassignment. Canipe also claimed he was fired ...