The United States Senate has recently confirmed Karla Gilbride as the new General Counsel for the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), filling a role that remained vacant for roughly two and a half years. This confirmation comes during a period where new case filings are on the rise.
As reported by JD Supra, Karla Gilbride is a seasoned disability-rights litigator and is expected to significantly influence the EEOC’s litigation program both internally and externally. Her appointment could complicate an already observed upward trend in litigation involving disability rights and accommodations.
Karla Gilbride’s extensive background in the field of disability law places her in a unique position to direct, advocate for, and influence the EEOC’s litigators throughout her term as General Counsel. This may be a crucial moment for the EEOC, especially considering the growing volume of case filings in recent times.
Her confirmation by the Senate is a significant development in the legal landscape, especially for corporations concerned about EEOC litigation and professionals in the field of labor and employment law who are dealing with disability rights and accommodations.
As ever, maintaining an eye on the evolving priorities and focus of the EEOC will continue to be important for legal professionals and large corporations alike, during Karla Gilbride’s tenure and beyond.