Overview
Disney has agreed to pay $43.25 million to resolve a pay equity class-action suit involving up to 14,000 female employees from 2015 to the present. The settlement, much lower than the initially estimated $300 million, comes after a quietly reached agreement with the plaintiffs represented by Lori Andrus. The company has also committed to improving pay equality practices by hiring an outside consultant and extending cooperation with an external economist for three more years.
The final approval for the settlement is scheduled for January 10, 2025, before Judge Elihu M. Berle. The lawsuit, first filed in April 2019 by employees LaRonda Rasmussen and Karen Moore, alleged gender-based pay discrepancies at Disney, violating employment laws. Despite Disney’s efforts to dismiss the case, the settlement marks a significant step towards resolving the long-standing issue of unequal pay within the company.
Notably, the settlement does not cover female employees at subsidiaries like Hulu, ESPN, Pixar, or former Fox assets. The plaintiffs’ attorneys have not commented on the filing, leaving the final resolution pending confirmation. Stay updated for further developments on this matter.
Characteristics and Key Points
- Settlement amount: $43.25 million.
- Number of eligible class members: Up to 14,000.
- Period covered: 2015 to present.
- Initiating plaintiffs: LaRonda Rasmussen and Karen Moore.
- Main allegations: Violation of Fair Employment & Housing Act and California’s Equal Pay Act.
Benefits
- Resolve a long-standing pay equity issue.
- Improvement in pay equality practices.
- Commitment to fair compensation for employees.
The ongoing case regarding pay equity at Disney is approaching a pivotal moment with the upcoming settlement approval hearing. The company’s proactive steps towards addressing pay disparities and implementing better practices reflect a commitment to equitable treatment of its employees. Stay tuned for the final verdict on January 10, 2025.
As the resolution of this complex legal battle draws near, the impact of the settlement extends beyond monetary compensation to drive positive change within Disney’s workforce. By holding the company accountable for pay equity violations, the plaintiffs’ efforts have paved the way for a fairer and more inclusive workplace environment.
With the final approval pending, the outcome of the settlement will set a precedent for corporate responsibility and gender equality in the entertainment industry. As stakeholders await the judge’s decision, the focus remains on achieving justice and fair treatment for all employees affected by the pay equity dispute.
For the latest updates on the Disney pay equity case and the upcoming settlement approval, follow the developments closely. Click below to access the official website and stay informed about this significant legal milestone.
