OREGON – The U.S. Department of Labor has secured a court ruling ordering the U.S. Postal Service to pay $141,307 to a former probationary postal worker who was dismissed after reporting a work-related injury. The postal worker was dismissed 11 days before completing his probationary period.
The Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) investigated the case, and when no administrative resolution was reached, the Department of Labor proceeded with a lawsuit.
Following a two-day bench trial, the judge determined that the Postal Service discriminated against the worker, leading to his unjust dismissal. This incident occurred in Oregon but is not an isolated case.
Since 2020, the Department of Labor has filed nine additional federal lawsuits alleging unjust dismissals of probationary employees for reporting work-related injuries. These cases have been recorded in California, Oregon, Pennsylvania, and Washington, demonstrating a pattern of retaliatory behavior by the Postal Service.
The judge in Oregon concluded that there was “evidence of retaliatory intent” in the actions of the Postal Service. Under the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, dismissing employees for exercising their right to a safe and healthy workplace is illegal. This ruling underscores the importance of protecting labor rights and workplace safety.
The Department of Labor is committed to working with the Postal Service to implement systemic changes that protect workers dedicated to serving American citizens.
Workers have the right to a safe workplace and to have all medical bills covered after a work-related injury. They should not fear retaliation for reporting injuries or safety concerns. OSHA enforces over 20 laws protecting whistleblowers. Employees have the right to refuse tasks if they reasonably believe there is a risk of death or serious injury.
