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 lawsuit 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 due to their refusal to get vaccinated. The EEOC argued that the termination constituted unlawful discrimination.

On Monday, the commission formally announced the settlement agreement. Details regarding the specific terms of the agreement beyond the financial settlement amount were not immediately released. The settlement resolves the legal action, bringing an end to the dispute between the EEOC and UNC Health Rex.

This case highlights ongoing legal challenges related to employer vaccine mandates and employee rights during the COVID-19 pandemic. While many healthcare organizations implemented vaccine requirements to protect patients and staff, some employees have raised concerns about personal beliefs and potential discrimination. The EEOC continues to investigate and address claims of unlawful discrimination related to vaccine policies.