(ZENIT News / Michigan, 11.14.2024).- In a significant ruling, a federal court in Michigan has ordered Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan to pay over $12 million in damages to Lisa Domski, a longtime employee, who was dismissed for refusing to comply with the company’s COVID-19 vaccine mandate on religious grounds. The court sided with Domski, finding that her dismissal constituted religious discrimination.
Domski, who had worked remotely from her home office, argued that her refusal to be vaccinated was rooted in her Catholic beliefs. According to her lawyer, Jon Marko, she submitted a formal request for a religious exemption in 2021, along with a statement outlining her beliefs and contact information for her priest and parish. However, the company reportedly denied her request and issued an ultimatum—vaccinate or face termination. Despite nearly four decades of service, Domski held firm to her convictions and was subsequently let go.
“Here was a dedicated employee, working remotely from her basement office, posing no risk to anyone and faithfully fulfilling her job for 38 years,” Marko stated, emphasizing that her termination lacked justification given her remote role.
Domski’s case raised questions about the application of the company’s vaccine policy, which allowed for both medical and religious exemptions. Her lawyer noted that despite her detailed submission, Blue Cross Blue Shield questioned the sincerity of her religious objection and, according to Marko, later claimed unfamiliarity with her faith even after reviewing her documentation.
The jury’s decision broke down damages as follows: $10 million in punitive damages, $1.7 million for lost wages, and $1 million for non-economic damages, reflecting the court’s assessment of the personal and financial impact of her dismissal.
Following the verdict, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan expressed disappointment, indicating that they were exploring legal options to challenge the ruling. The case highlights the legal tensions surrounding religious exemptions and vaccine mandates, raising broader implications for workplace policies that seek to balance public health guidelines with individual rights.
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