Over $12 million awarded to fired worker for refusing COVID-19 vaccine

In Michigan, a major insurance company, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, is facing over 100 lawsuits from employees who were dismissed after refusing to comply with a mandated COVID-19 vaccination. This situation gained public attention when a jury awarded Lisa Domski, a former IT specialist who worked for the company for nearly 38 years, over $12 million in damages because she claimed religious discrimination after her request for a vaccine exemption was denied. The trial took place several months prior to February 2025, culminating in a significant verdict against the company. Domski maintained that receiving the COVID-19 vaccine conflicted with her deeply held Catholic beliefs and provided a written statement to support her claim along with details of her priest. Despite this, Blue Cross did not grant her an accommodation, stating they believed her request was not grounded in genuine religious conviction. Ultimately, Domski lost her job for her refusal to get vaccinated. Her case has sparked broader discussions about employer mandates and the balance between public health initiatives and individual rights. As a result of the jury's decision, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan requested a federal judge to pause the proceedings while they negotiate a possible resolution with mediators about Domski's case and similar lawsuits. The company's representative declined to comment on the situation further as they may seek a global settlement that could impact all affected employees. The lawsuit illustrates the ongoing tensions surrounding vaccine mandates that emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly regarding how businesses handle employees who refuse vaccinations on religious grounds. While Blue Cross is currently in negotiations, the verdict in Domski's case raises important questions about corporate policies on health and safety and the implications these policies have on employee rights. Additionally, the situation shows that punitive damages can face caps, which may affect the total awarded amount. Beyond Domski's case, the outcome of these lawsuits could shape future corporate practices with respect to employee vaccination policies and workplace discrimination claims.