Federal Jury Awards $12 Million to Ex-Blue Cross Blue Shield Employee Over COVID-19 Vaccine Religious Discrimination

A federal jury in Detroit awarded $12 million to Lisa Domski, a former IT specialist at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan (BCBSM), who claimed she was wrongfully terminated due to religious discrimination after declining the company’s COVID-19 vaccine mandate. Domski, who had been with BCBSM for over 30 years, cited her Catholic beliefs in seeking exemption from the 2021 vaccination requirement, a request that was ultimately denied.

The verdict includes $10 million in punitive damages against BCBSM, $1.7 million for lost wages, and $1 million for non-economic damages. Domski’s attorney, Jon Marko, argued that her remote work arrangement minimized any potential risk to her colleagues. Marko stated, “Our forefathers fought for the freedom for each American to practice his or her own religion...Lisa refused to renounce her faith and was wrongfully terminated."

BCBSM implemented its vaccine policy in October 2021, mandating full vaccination for all employees unless they qualified for a religious or medical exemption. In its response to the verdict, BCBSM defended its actions, stating that it designed the policy to align with state and federal laws. While expressing disappointment with the jury’s decision, BCBSM acknowledged the jurors' service and indicated it is exploring legal options, potentially including an appeal.

The case underscores the balance companies must strike between public health policies and individual rights, particularly regarding religious accommodations in the workplace.