On May 15, 2017, a federal judge  approved the $ 7.5 million class action settlement between Walmart and former Walmart associate Jacqueline Cote, that challenged Walmart’s lack of health insurance benefits for same-sex spouses of Walmart associates prior to 2014. Li plis.

GLAD and co-counsel Washington Lawyers’ Committee, Peter Romer-Friedman of Outten & Golden LLP filed the class action complaint against Walmart, charging the retailer with discriminating against employees who were married to same-sex spouses by denying their spouses health insurance benefits.

On December 22, 2016, the District Court presiding over the class action lawsuit granted preliminary approval of a Settlement, and directed the parties to send notice to Settlement Class Members so that they can learn about the Settlement and have the opportunity to submit claims to receive payments.

Notice was provided to class members on January 23, 2017. Li plis

To receive payments under the Settlement, Settlement Class Members were directed to file claims with the Settlement Administrator no later than March 20, 2017.

This class action lawsuit flowed from a complaint GLAD filed on Jackie’s behalf with the Equal Opportunity Employment Commission (EEOC) in September 2014. On January 29, 2014, the EEOC issued a final determination stating that Walmart’s treatment of Jackie constituted unlawful sex discrimination. On May 29, 2015, the EEOC issued a right to sue letter.

In addition to GLAD, Outten & Golden LLP, and the Washington Lawyers’ Committee, Jacqueline Cote is represented by  and Arnold and Porter LLP.

Diana Smithson and Jacqueline Cote. Photo: 777 Portraits Myrtle Beach, SC  Download photo