News Article

Coke Employees Face Decision Whether To Accept Race Bias Settlement

The Atlanta Constitution

Published: January 17, 2001

ATLANTA -- It's decision time for some 2,000 current and former Coca-Cola workers covered by a record $192.5 million racial discrimination settlement.

Coca-Cola mailed court-approved notices Tuesday to salaried African-American employees in the United States who worked for the company any time between April 22, 1995, and June 14, 2000. .

Members of the class-action case have until March 19 to decide on one of four basic options:.

To agree to the terms, which provide an average of about $40,000 for each class member. A formula, partly based on a class member's length of service and pay, has been developed. .

To accept a partial settlement averaging about $28,000. Class members who think they have strong evidence they were discriminated against in a prior promotion decision can then take their promotion case to a U.S. magistrate judge in an expedited procedure. .

To "opt out" of the settlement, allowing the person to file an individual suit for monetary damages. Already pending is a separate lawsuit by four former African-American employees. .

To file an objection to the settlement but remain part of the class. If the settlement is approved, those who object are part of it and cannot opt out. .

A "fairness hearing" before U.S. District Judge Richard Story has been set for May 29. Story will consider evidence about whether the settlement is fair and reasonable before deciding whether to give it final approval. .

Coca-Cola has the right to declare the settlement void if more than 200 class members opt out. .

For more information or the full story, contact Mehri & Skalet, PLLC.