Transgender worker sues manufacturer for denying medical coverage

Lillian Bernier, a transgender worker at Turbocam, Inc. is suing the manufacturing company for denying her medical coverage related to her gender transition. GLBTQ Legal Advocates & Defenders (GLAD) has filed an employment discrimination case on Lillian’s behalf.

According to GLAD, health care coverage is offered to Turbocam employees, but the self-funded plan excludes coverage for treatment related to gender transition.

In a recent quote, GLAD Attorney Chris Erchull said, “Providing lesser health benefits to transgender workers is employment discrimination. By maintaining a blanket exclusion of coverage for healthcare related to gender transition Turbocam is trying to sidestep the law. Lillian has dedicated her time and energy to the company, including working onsite throughout the COVID pandemic. She is simply asking to be treated with the same dignity, humanity and fairness as other employees.”