CHARLESTON — A mother is suing the state natural resources division, alleging disability discrimination and wrongful termination against her daughter.
Lisa Vance, as natural mother and next friend of Lexi Vance, a minor, filed a complaint in Kanawha Circuit Court against the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources, alleging violation of the West Virginia Human Rights Act.
According to the complaint, on Aug. 26, 2017, Lexi Vance was hired by natural resources as a server at the Chief Logan State Park Lodge and Conference Center. Lisa Vance says after a urinary track infection caused Lexi Vance to miss work. The suit alleges Lexi Vance was subjected to continuous harassment, degradation and humiliation from Cathy Fout, her supervisor, due to Vance missing work for medical leave.
Despite being scheduled to work Nov. 11, 2017, the suit says, Fout abruptly terminated Levi Vance's employment during the supposed arranged meeting between her mother and Fout.
The plaintiff alleges the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources terminated an employee based upon her disability and/or perceived disability.
Lisa Vance seeks trial by jury, damages, an order requiring the defendant to establish an on-going training programs for its management, staff, and employees on disability discrimination and all other just and proper relief. She is represented by attorneys Robert P. Lorea of Lorea Law Office PLLC in Charleston, and by Todd S. Bailess and Rodney A. Smith of Bailess Smith in Charleston.
Kanawha Circuit Court case number 18-C-988
