The U.S. Supreme Court is poised to take center stage in 2025 with decisions that could reshape workplace laws, from reverse discrimination claims to wage law exemptions and retirement benefits. Here’s a breakdown of the major cases that could leave a lasting impact on employers and workers alike.
Majority Discrimination Claims Under Scrutiny
In a closely watched case, the Court will decide if employees from “majority backgrounds,” such as heterosexual individuals or white workers, face unfair hurdles in proving workplace bias under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
Marlean Ames, a former employee of the Ohio Department of Youth Services, claims she was passed over for a promotion and replaced due to her sexual orientation. Lower courts have traditionally set a higher bar for majority-group discrimination claims, arguing that such cases are less common. A ruling in Ames’ favor could empower challenges to corporate diversity initiatives and redefine workplace equity debates.
Can Retirees Fight Disability Discrimination?
The Court will also address whether retired workers can sue their former employers for disability bias. The case centers on Karyn Stanley, a retired firefighter, who alleges her city’s policy unfairly slashed disability benefits for retirees.
At issue is whether retirees qualify as employees under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a matter that has divided federal courts. Advocates argue this decision could impact millions who depend on disability benefits.
Rethinking Wage Law Exemptions
In another key case, justices are set to clarify how employers must prove workers are exempt from federal wage protections, such as overtime pay. The decision, expected by June, could influence the outcomes of class-action wage lawsuits and alter how businesses approach labor disputes.
The case involves grocery distributor EMD Sales, which contests a lower court ruling requiring “clear and convincing evidence” to classify employees as exempt under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). A ruling could either ease or tighten standards for employers nationwide.
Employee Benefits Under the Microscope
The Court will also weigh in on whether administrators of retirement plans violated federal law by engaging in questionable transactions. A class-action lawsuit involving Cornell University claims excessive fees were paid to third parties, breaching the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA).
This decision could set new benchmarks for the fiduciary responsibilities of employers managing retirement plans. Oral arguments are scheduled for late January.
Implications for Workers and Employers
These cases reflect the evolving landscape of labor law, where questions of equity, fairness, and financial accountability remain contentious. The Supreme Court’s rulings will likely redefine legal standards in the workplace, with far-reaching consequences for both employers and employees in the years ahead.
