Tag Archives: COVID19

Pennsylvania Fire Department Sued for COVID-Related Wrongful Death

The family of a Pennsylvania woman who died from COVID on January 23, 2021, has filed suit against the local fire department and several providers claiming they failed to properly evaluate and transport her to definitive care the day before.

Former Sacramento Fire Chief Seeks $10 Million for Wrongful Termination

The former fire chief in Sacramento is claiming that his termination earlier this year was the result of retaliation by the city’s mayor. Gary Loesch seeks $10 million because Mayor Howard Chan wrongfully terminated him on May 26, 2022, and intentionally exposed him to COVID in retaliation for having challenged earlier discipline.

LA County Firefighter’s Vaccine Mandate Suit Dismissed

A lawsuit filed by a Los Angeles County firefighter challenging the COVID19 vaccine mandate as violating the Americans with Disabilities Act, has been dismissed. Marcia Wilson filed suit in April contending that she was being discriminated against on account of a perceived disability.

Oregon Fire Department Sued Over COVID Related Death

The family of an Oregon woman who died of COVID in 2020, has filed suit against the fire department and several firefighters claiming their refusal to treat and transport the victim led to her death. Teresa Vaughn died on December 26, 2020, hours after firefighters from the Klamath County Fire District No. 1 suggested her domestic partner drive her to the hospital.

St. Paul Firefighters Get Restraining Order Against Vaccine Mandate

St. Paul Firefighters, IAFF Local 21 has obtained a temporary restraining order against the city’s enforcement of its vaccine mandate. The firefighters’ lawsuit, similar to one filed by the union representing St. Paul police officers, contends that enforcement of the vaccine mandate violates the state’s collective bargaining laws.

Investigation Launched into California Medics’ Refusal to Enter Medical Facility

The Rialto Fire Department is investigating allegations that two of its medics refused to enter a medical facility to treat and transport a man in cardiac arrest. The incident occurred on November 17, 2021, and some of it was captured on the body-cam of a local police officer.

Judge Denies Relief to FDNY Firefighters Challenging Vaccine Mandate

A US District Court judge has denied a request by FDNY firefighters seeking to block the city’s COVID vaccine mandate. The suit was filed on November 24, 2021 by fifty members of FDNY who were placed on leave without pay because they had not been vaccinated for COVID19.

More COVID Headlines in Fire Law News: From Butt Wipes to Litigation

Another week, another new COVID related headline. The Los Angeles City Fire Department is investigating allegations that a firefighter dropped his pants and wiped his butt with a notice related to his non-compliance with the city’s vaccine requirements.

Washington State Firefighters Sue to Block King County Vaccine Mandate

Six Washington state firefighters who claim they are entitled to a religious exemption from the state’s COVID vaccine mandate, have filed a class action lawsuit against two King County regional fire organizations, at least 20 municipalities, 19 fire chiefs, and the county medical director.

Court Refuses to Block Oregon Vaccine Mandate

A lawsuit filed by a firefighter and five public employees seeking to challenge Oregon’s COVID19 vaccine mandate because they already had the disease, has failed to block the implementation deadline. Joshua Williams, identified in the complaint as station chief at Aurora Fire and Rescue, filed suit last month along with Jennifer Lewis, David Klaus, Michael Miller, Phillip Kearney, and Jay Hicks.

Florida Firefighter Alleges Retaliatory Termination and Whistleblower Violation

A Florida firefighter who claims he was fired after reporting the misuse of COVID related funds, has filed suit alleging retaliation and whistleblower violations. Kevin Nelmes filed suit against the Greater Naples Fire Rescue District claiming that he was wrongfully terminated earlier this year.

South Carolina Vaccine Lawsuit Removed to Federal Court

A lawsuit filed by twelve South Carolina firefighters seeking to block a vaccine mandate, has been removed to federal court due to the Constitutional questions raised. The firefighters filed suit against the St. Johns Fire District, the fire chief, and each of the commissioners.

RI Court Rejects Firefighters Vaccine Mandate Challenge

A Superior Court judge has rejected a request by the Rhode Island State Association of Firefighters for an injunction to block the state health department from implementing a COVID19 vaccine mandate. The suit sought an injunction against the state’s planned COVID19 vaccine requirement on the grounds that it violates collective bargaining laws by imposing a mandatory condition of employment on firefighters.

Polk County Captain Charged in Theft of COVID19 Vaccine

A captain with Polk County Fire Rescue has been arrested and charged with stealing three doses of COVID19 vaccine intended for first responders. Polk County Sheriff’s Office is reporting that Captain Anthony Damiano stole the doses with the assistance of Paramedic Josh Colon in order to give to his mother.

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