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COOK COUNTY RECORD

Thursday, November 7, 2024

Plaintiff alleges former employer polymer company violated ADA and FMLA

Federal Court
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Bernardo Bahena has filed a lawsuit against his former employer, a polymer company, alleging discrimination and retaliation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). The complaint was filed on Oct. 30 in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois against I2Poly, Inc., doing business as 4RAM Polymers.

The case revolves around Bahena's claim that he was unlawfully terminated due to his disability and for exercising his rights under FMLA. Bahena began working for the defendant as an Operator in 2006 and maintained a spotless employment record until his termination on July 26, 2024. His troubles began in early 2023 when he developed arterial issues in his foot, necessitating surgery in February 2024. Despite being granted FMLA leave to recover, upon returning to work with medical restrictions in April 2024, Bahena alleges that while initially accommodated by the company, he was later informed they could no longer accommodate him without any legitimate reason provided.

Bahena contends that after submitting medical clearance to return to full duty without restrictions on July 24, 2024, he was abruptly terminated two days later. He argues this timing indicates retaliation for taking FMLA leave and bias against his perceived disability. The lawsuit accuses I2Poly of several violations: discrimination based on disability under ADA; failure to accommodate; harassment; retaliation; interference with FMLA rights; and retaliatory discharge.

Bahena requests back pay with interest, front pay, loss of benefits compensation, punitive damages, attorney fees and costs, pre-judgment interest if applicable, and any other relief deemed appropriate by the court. A jury trial has been demanded to address these grievances.

Representing Bernardo Bahena are attorneys Alexander J. Taylor and Mohammed O. Badwan from Sulaiman Law Group Ltd., while details about the defense counsel remain undisclosed at this stage. The case is presided over by an unnamed judge under Case ID: 1:24-cv-11150.

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