Legal Ledger Brief: JBS trucking unit accused of discrimination

A lawsuit filed in Denver on Sept. 28 b the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) claims that JBS USA’s trucking unit violated federal law by using pre-employment screening procedures that improperly screen out truck driving job applicants on the basis of disability. EEOC’s lawsuit alleges that JBS Carriers unlawfully denied truck-driving jobs to applicants because of their disabilities, by subjecting applicants to a medical and physical screening process that excludes applicants with disabilities. The suit argues that JBS Carriers relied on the recommendations of a third-party pre-employment screening company, ErgoMed, and did not give individual consideration to job applicants, and it failed to provide reasonable accommodations and discriminated against applicants whom it regarded as disabled. Responding to the lawsuit, JBS Carriers officials released the following statement: “JBS Carriers strongly disputes the allegations and we will fully defend our interests. We enjoy a diverse workforce and work hard to provide an inclusive environment of opportunity for all of our team members. These false accusations are inconsistent with our culture and do not reflect the values of the company.” JBS Carriers is based in Greeley and operates throughout the United States, with terminals in Wisconsin, Utah, Texas, and Georgia.