New Jersey Challenges Amazon's Employment Practices

The state of New Jersey has launched legal action against Amazon, contending the global retailer unlawfully denied workplace accommodations to warehouse employees with disabilities or those who were pregnant, and subsequently dismissed some who requested them. The lawsuit, introduced by Attorney General Matthew Platkin, scrutinizes Amazon's treatment of its warehouse workers, a crucial component of the company's rapid delivery operations.

According to New Jersey's claims, Amazon frequently turns down reasonable accommodation requests, such as time off or limitations on heavy lifting, subsequently placing employees on unpaid leave, thus breaching state anti-discrimination laws. Employees who do obtain accommodations struggle to meet Amazon's stringent productivity targets, often resulting in their termination as alleged by Platkin’s office. The lawsuit seeks unspecified financial remedies and an injunction mandating Amazon to revise its hiring practices.

Attorney General Platkin criticized Amazon's practices, stating that the company has prioritized profits over worker well-being while building its business empire. In response to the lawsuit, Amazon has remained silent but previously denied engaging in such practices. Known as the second-largest private employer in the U.S., Amazon employs around 50,000 at its New Jersey facilities, where federal and state laws demand reasonable accommodations for certain workers. Amazon continues to face various legal challenges regarding allegations of discrimination, including an ongoing federal investigation.