Question:
Can my Boss do this?

I went for consult on 1-9-03, returned to work on 1-12-03 and told my co-workers about my plans to have surgery, most were very excited for me but not my boss, he came in my office after lunch and told me he was taking me off full time and putting me back on part time, and that I would be losing my benefits, Can he really do this, isn't that discrimination?    — DANA B. (posted on January 23, 2003)

January 23, 2003
If he is doing it because your having the surgery its discrimination if he is doing it do to the fact the co. is in financial troubles thats a different story. I dont know what your state laws are but I would check with legal aid. Did he do this after you told him you were having the surgery? Or did he have to hear about it from your coworkers first? What reason did he give you for doing this? Tell him you need it in writing for your records.
   — Angie L.

January 23, 2003
Run,don't walk to your human resources department. Your boss certainly sounds suspicious. I'd start keeping a little diary of everything and anything you can think of that's transpired in your department in the recent past. Good luck to you.
   — lorien

January 23, 2003
I believe this is a violation of the Americans with Disabilites Act. I would seek an attorney immediately.
   — Darlene P.

January 23, 2003
When I started my job I had a 90 day probationary period. Insurance kicked in after 30 days. I called my insurance immediately to find out about weightloss surgery and they said yes the do pay for it "all the time." I was excited! I told a coworker who I liked and trusted, and yes just met and she told my boss and on my 49th day, I was "let go" because "I was not what they were looking for." This was after I quit a job of four years to go to work there.
   — Marcy G.

January 23, 2003
Oh and by the way, I now pay for COBRA through that company (you should too, if you can) and was approved for surgery. I pay $450. a month for single coverage not including dentist.
   — Marcy G.

January 25, 2003
If I were you, I would quit effective immediately (while you still have benefits) and take the COBRA option. And then, yes, I would consult an attorney. This sounds extremely fishy.
   — Terissa R.

January 25, 2003
Last year I was reduced to part time 2 days after Christmas, I had to option of going on Cobra. You won't have to quit unless you want to, to go on cobra. Your boss is a jerk.
   — obsessivekompulsive

January 29, 2003
Don't quit your job! Go to your boss's manager or director and discuss this with them. If no satisfaction, go to your Human Resources Director. He can't cut your hours because you're having surgery. Do you have any attendance problems currently? Be sure you have your ducks in a row when you go to HR. Good luck, and let us know the outcome!
   — Linda R.