the agency stated this Wednesday.
Microsoft Corporation is one of the biggest companies in America, providing products and services for your home and business. The company was founded in 1975 and has since then created solutions for a more productive work environment, winning notoriety in the industry. Their most known for its operating system and its Microsoft 365 suite.
As of this week, the California Civil Rights Department accused the tech giant of misconduct as a result of Microsoft’s decision to retaliate against California's employees who needed parental, disability, pregnancy, or family care leave. This event took place in 2017, with the employees being denied any raises, promotions, or stock from Microsoft.
This inappropriate behavior was predominantly towards women and people with disabilities, as a result receiving lower performance rates which had a direct impact on their income and job opportunities in the workplace. This altered their career prospects and even denied them promotions.
As a response, California's agency responded that this settlement should resolve a multiple-layer lawsuit inflicted by the Civil Rights Department. However, in this agreement, Microsoft denied any wrongdoing.
A company representative who gave a statement about the situation expressed that “Microsoft is committed to an environment that empowers our employees to take leave when needed and provides the flexibility and support necessary for them to thrive professionally and personally,".
Even more so, this is not the first time the tech giant has faced such allegations. Microsoft has confronted numerous settlements in recent years. The Civil Rights Department filled numerous reports, mainly due to sex-discrimination cases, including the $100 million deal with Riot Games in 2021, the videogame maker. Another major settlement from last year reached up to $54 million with Activision Blizzard. More recently, Microsoft also closed a $15 million settlement last month with Snap, Snapchat’s parent.
As of now, the number of employees who can benefit from this settlement is unknown, estimating around 6700 people. The Director of the Civil Rights Department – Kevin Kish, reported that Microsoft failed to help and support employees when they needed it. Further saying that “The settlement announced today will provide direct relief to impacted workers and safeguard against future discrimination at the company,”.
It is also worth mentioning that the $14.4 million settlement is not the only repercussion. Microsoft also agreed to hire a consultant who can ensure that the company’s policies are met and make sure that employee’s rights are followed.
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