UNC Health Rex has reached a settlement of $150,000 in a COVID-19 vaccine discrimination lawsuit filed by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). The EEOC brought the action on behalf of a former employee who was terminated for declining to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.

The lawsuit, initiated in 2024, alleged that Rex Healthcare violated federal law by firing the employee based on their refusal to be vaccinated against COVID-19. The EEOC argued that the termination constituted unlawful discrimination.

On Monday, the EEOC announced the settlement agreement with UNC Health Rex, resolving the legal dispute. The $150,000 will be paid to the former employee as compensation. Details regarding any policy changes implemented by UNC Health Rex as a result of the settlement were not immediately available.

This case highlights ongoing legal challenges related to employer vaccine mandates and employee rights during the COVID-19 pandemic. The EEOC continues to investigate and pursue claims of discrimination related to vaccination policies in the workplace. Further information regarding the settlement and any related policy adjustments from UNC Health Rex is expected to be released in the coming days.