Four Cases From Todays News Headlines

Its been a busy day news wise, and four stories caught my attention. In San Francisco, two fire department applicants have filed suit in state court alleging they were discriminated against because they have diabetes. From the write up, it appears there is more to the story as both were career firefighters Presidio Fire Department, one serving as union president and the other as secretary treasurer. However, the suit is focused on the narrow issue of disability discrimination.

In New York, a firefighter has filed suit against FDNY alleging that the department is not following safe maritime practices. Firefighter Frederick Domini seeks a court order grounding the department’s newest vessel, The 343, until the department complies with all Coast Guard and maritime requirements. Domini alleges a crash between two fire boats in January proves his point.  

In Jeffersonville, Indiana, a lawsuit filed by Fire Marshall Jason Sharp over a demotion has been settled with Sharp retaining his rank of major and the city paying his legal fees. Sharp originally alleged political retaliation in the demotion but the case was settled on the basis of language in the  collective bargaining agreement.

And lastly, the Union Fire Company in Bensalem Township, Pennsylvania has been reopened following successful negotiations between local officials and the company. Recall last week the company was closed because they failed to comply with township requirements. The company alleged that the closing was political retaliation and threatened a civil suit. As a condition of reopening, the company agreed to accept new leadership.