Worker’s Religious Freedom Wins Her Millions In Court


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A Michigan IT specialist’s religious stance against COVID-19 vaccination has resulted in a substantial legal victory. Lisa Domski, a 38-year veteran at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, secured nearly $13 million in damages after being terminated for refusing the vaccine based on her Catholic faith.

The Detroit jury’s verdict allocated $10 million for punitive damages, $1.7 million for lost wages, and an additional $1 million for noneconomic damages, according to Lawyer Monthly.

‘This win isn’t just about compensation; it’s about standing up for employee rights.’

The controversy began in November 2021 when BCBS of Michigan implemented a vaccine mandate for all employees, including remote workers like Domski. The deadline was set for December 8, with an option to request religious exemption.

During her exemption application process, Domski faced intense questioning from company officials without legal representation. They scrutinized her religious convictions with queries about pain medication use and the consistency of her beliefs, despite her providing her parish and priest’s information.

The company ultimately terminated approximately 250 employees, including Domski, on January 5, 2022, after placing them on unpaid leave. Her lawsuit noted that BCBS of Michigan granted exemptions to unvaccinated employees with different religious beliefs.

“Our forefathers fought and died for the freedom for each American to practice his or her own religion. Neither the government nor a corporation has a right to force an individual to choose between his or her career and conscience,” stated her attorney, Jon Marko, to Blaze News.

“Lisa refused to renounce her faith and beliefs and was wrongfully terminated from the only job she had ever known. The jury’s verdict today tells BCBSM that religious discrimination has no place in America and affirms each person’s right to religious freedom.”

BCBS of Michigan responded more reservedly, stating, “Throughout the pandemic, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, together with its employees, worked to promote the health and safety of our colleagues, stakeholders, and communities. In implementing the vaccine policy, Blue Cross designed an accommodation process that complied with state and federal law and respected the sincerely held religious beliefs of its employees.”

The company indicated they’re reviewing their legal options for future steps.