The Austin Fire Department’s six-month hiring freeze is not tapering off despite a new hiring proposal. The hiatus was put in place after a ruling was made in September regarding the complaint filed by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission regarding allegations that the city’s fire department cadet hiring process is discriminatory against African-American and Hispanic people. The freeze is mainly in place so that the city council and the Department of Justice can reach an agreement regarding the settlement to give to the said victims of discrimination.

If the settlement process is rushed, Austin Firefighters Association President Bob Nicks said that the result might not be agreeable to the association, which could result in federal action and a further “three to five years with no hires.”

According to a city spokesperson, an Austin city ordinance requires that 240 firefighters must be employed by the city 24/7.

If you had been treated unfairly by your place of employment in Austin or during the employment process, our legal team at The Melton Law Firm, may be able to help you achieve justice and get compensation for the harm you have suffered. To discuss your situation and options, call (512) 330-0017.

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) reports that the Austin Fire Department has discriminated against Latinos and African-Americans in their hiring process. Fire-fighter exams, which must be submitted with an application to the fire department, were allegedly biased against minorities.

The Department of Justice informed Austin through a letter that the fire department’s employment application practices were biased.

AFD Fire Chief Rhoda Mae Kerr maintains that the perceived discrimination was “unintentional”, and that applicants with the highest scores were hired.

Kerr also noted in the 2012 fire department review that they encouraged female candidates, as well as candidates of other races, to apply for the positions.

No one be forced to endure workplace discrimination. If you or a loved one is being treated unfairly by an employer, please contact our experienced attorneys at The Melton Law Firm, by calling (512) 330-0017 to discuss your situation.