An Idaho-based convenience store chain, Jacksons Food Stores, Inc., will pay $88,000 and hire a deaf worker as well as provide other relief to settle a disability discrimination lawsuit, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) announced.

The EEOC lawsuit charged that Jacksons refused to interview Nathaniel Prugh because of his deafness. After applying online for a position at the company's Sammamish, Wash., store, Prugh was selected for an interview based on his qualifications and experience working similar jobs. However, once he explained that he was deaf and would need an interpreter, the store manager balked and refused to give him that opportunity, the EEOC said.

Rejecting a qualified applicant because of disability violates the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The EEOC filed suit in U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington (EEOC v. Jacksons Food Stores, Inc., Case No. 2:17-CV-01285) after an investigation by EEOC Investigator Elizabeth Kidd and after first attempting to reach a pre-litigation settlement through its conciliation process.

"My being deaf does not prevent me from being a qualified worker with much to contribute," said Prugh. "I'm excited to show Jacksons what a valuable contribution I can make to its team."

The five-year consent decree settling the lawsuit provides Prugh with a job and $88,000 in lost wages and compensatory damages. The decree also requires Jacksons to train staff regarding hiring and reasonable accommodation under the ADA. The company will also implement and disseminate a modified ADA policy, and will post a notice for employees about the consent decree and their rights under the ADA.