FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. (Legal Newsline) — The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) announced a lawsuit May 17 against Ruby Tuesday Inc., a national casual dining restaurant chain, for allegations of age discrimination.
The EEOC says the company declined to hire a general manager applicant who purportedly had more than 20 years of food and beverage industry experience for its restaurant in Boca Raton, Florida. When the applicant inquired as to why the company passed over him, Ruby Tuesday allegedly told him it sought a candidate who could “maximize longevity.” Purported conduct of this nature violates the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA).
"In the South Florida area, we represent the interests of many different people," said Michael Farrell, director of the EEOC's Miami District Office. "Age cannot be a factor in whether or not someone can earn a living."
The EEOC seeks compensatory and liquidated damages, as well as injunctive relief to prevent future discrimination by Ruby Tuesday in the future.
"The ADEA was put in place precisely to protect people against this type of conduct,” said Robert Weisberg, regional attorney for the Miami District Office. “The bustling hospitality industry needs to be reflective of all of the members of our community."