Age Discrimination Suit Settled for $8.75 Million

Fayetteville, WV: A lawsuit alleging age discrimination, filed in 2006, was brought to a close this week with Fayette County Circuit Court approving an $8.75 million settlement. The class action was brought against Massey Energy and its subsidiary Spartan Mining Co, following its purchase of the Cannelton mining operation in 2004.

The suit was led by 5 coal miners who alleged that Massey failed to hire older workers in violation of the West Virginia Human Rights Act when it began mining operations in December 2004: the suit represented more than 200 job applicants.

Under the terms of the settlement, 82 miners who previously worked at the Cannelton operation will each receive $38,000 in back pay and general compensatory damages. Another 141 job applicants each will receive $19,000.