In 2021, the United States District Court for the District of Kansas ordered the KCKFD to pay Jyan Harris, a former firefighter, $2.4 million in Harris v. City of Kansas.
Jyan Harris, a black firefighter, was injured on the job in two separate incidents in 2013 and 2016. He was denied injury leave and forced to use PTO instead, violating the leave policy negotiated for firefighters by a labor union. The injuries left Harris disabled. For years, he was subjected to hostility, intimidation, and harassment due to his disability and race. He reported the harassment several times, but nothing was done about it. Eventually, he was fired in retaliation.
A panel of 10 jurists heard the case and awarded Harris $2.4 million in damages.
Lessons Learned from the Case:
- The case highlights the need for comprehensive anti-discrimination and anti-harassment policies as per federal and state whistleblower and discrimination laws.
- The settlement is a reminder to employers that employees who sustain work-related injuries are entitled to comprehensive benefits, including paid time off to recover.
Learn more about Kansas Labor Laws through our detailed guide.
