This document summarizes procedures for seamen to file whistleblower complaints under the Seaman's Protection Act (SPA). It outlines that:
- The SPA prohibits retaliation against seamen who report violations of maritime safety laws. It protects seamen who provide information to authorities about violations or refuse unsafe duties.
- Seamen can file complaints with OSHA within 180 days of facing adverse actions like firing or demotion for protected whistleblowing.
- If OSHA finds merit to a complaint, and a settlement cannot be reached, it will issue an order requiring remedies like reinstatement, back pay, and damages against the employer. Employers can appeal such orders.
This document outlines the legal authority for different personnel to apprehend, detain, and arrest suspects in various circumstances. Military police (MP) non-commissioned officers and officers can apprehend military suspects anytime, anywhere for violations of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) or federal/state law. All US Army Criminal Investigation Command (USACIDC) special agents can apprehend civilians on post for the same reasons. DoD civilian special agents have statutory arrest authority for military and civilian suspects under certain conditions specified by law. Non-MP and non-DoD law enforcement officers also have authority to apprehend or arrest suspects depending on the situation and their jurisdiction.
This waiver and release of liability document outlines the risks of participating in roller hockey organized by NorCal Extreme. It requires participants to waive any legal claims against NorCal Extreme, rink owners, landlords, directors, officers, employees, agents, volunteers, and others (collectively "Releasees") for injuries or damages resulting from participation. The document also requires participants to abide by rules, wear protective gear, hold Releasees harmless, and acknowledges the participant is aware of risks and in good health. A parent or guardian must also sign to waive claims on behalf of a minor applicant.
The Irrational Rationale: How the Military Hides Behind the Feres Doctrine to...Dallis Warshaw
Article published in the July issue of Orange County Lawyer magazine, providing an in-depth history and examination of the Feres doctrine, which bars lawsuits by service members seeking damages for sexual assault, the undisclosed administration of psychotropic drugs, negligent medical care and more because the injuries are seen as "incident to service."
A truck collided with a concrete-lined drainage ditch at the Mina Andaychagua zinc mine in Peru. The truck's front bumper was dented and its left headlight was broken. The driver reported the incident to the transport supervisor, who had the truck sent to the maintenance workshop. A review found the incident was an identified risk of mobile equipment loss of control. No injuries or fatalities occurred.
This complaint challenges actions taken around the 2014 Hawaii primary election that denied voters in certain precincts their right to vote due to Hurricane Iselle. It alleges that after the hurricane caused widespread power outages and road damage, preventing voters in Precincts 04-03 and 04-04 from accessing polls, defendants failed to take adequate steps to allow these voters to cast ballots. The complaint seeks a declaration that the relevant statute granting discretion to postpone elections is unconstitutional, and an injunction requiring defendants to provide a means for affected voters to vote before the September 20 deadline.
Commercial Arbitration is a process which depends on the consent of the parties. Only parties to the arbitration agreement can be affected by the arbitrator's award. In this article, the authors review a recent judgment of the Ontario Superior Court of Justice which set aside an arbitrator's award which made orders against third parties.
The case concerned a business transaction for the sale of a collection agency. The sale closed but the purchaser, a corporation operated by a lawyer, thought it had been defrauded by the seller. The purchaser commenced a claim in court attempting to place a certificate of pending litigation on the seller's house but then decided that he wished to arbitrate the dispute under the arbitration clause in the sale agreement.
After the arbitrator was consensually selected, the purchaser made a motion to the arbitrator without notice to seek a Mareva Injunction. A Mareva injunction is an order which restrains the defendant from disposing of his assets until the lawsuit has been concluded. It is typically obtained where there is reason to fear that the defendant will remove his assets from the jurisdiction before the case is completed and thereby avoid enforcement of any judgment which may be obtained. Typically, the order is also directed at banks and others who have financial dealings with the defendant, in the hope that they will freeze the defendant's accounts.
In the case discussed in the article, the claimant sought a Mareva injunction from the arbitrator without notice to the defendant. The arbitrator granted the order including an order directing banks to freeze the defendant's accounts. The claimant then filed the arbitrator's order in the court office without following the proper procedure to turn it into a court order. On a motion to the Court, the judge, the Hon. Justice Paul Perell, discussed in detail the principles affecting arbitral awards made without notice and whether an arbitrator can make an order which affects parties who are not involved in the arbitration. After an exhaustive analysis which is explained in the article, the Court decided that the arbitral order had to be set aside. The judge also called the arbitral award filed in the court office "bogus" because the correct procedure had not been followed.
Orie Niedzviecki, a partner of Ellyn Law LLP Business Litigation and Arbitration Lawyers, Toronto, and Evelyn Perez Youssoufian, an associate of the firm, were counsel for the seller. Assisted by Igor Ellyn, QC, CS, FCIArb., Senior Partner of Ellyn Law LLP, they explain the issues and legal principles enunciated by Justice Perell in this article.
In this paper, Toronto lawyers Evelyn Perez Youssoufian and Orie Niedzviecki discuss the impact of an important case in the commercial arbitration and the supervision of arbitration by the Superior Court of Justice of Ontario.
The Ontario Superior Court decision of Farah v Sauvageau Holdings Inc., 2011 ONSC 1819, resolves many issues regarding orders and awards in arbitration proceedings. The application was brought because there were novel issues raised in its underlying arbitration. In his decision, Justice Paul Perell addresses several important issues, some brought up at the Superior Court for the first time, which should be taken into account by both arbitrators and arbitral counsel when conducting an arbitration.
This paper discusses the issues of orders and awards in an arbitration as raised by Farah v Sauvageau; including an arbitrator's jurisdiction to make orders affecting non-parties, Mareva injunctions, Anton Piller orders, Norwich orders, orders for interim preservation of property or orders for Certificate of Pending Litigation. It also discusses whether it is or when it may be appropriate for arbitral counsel to have ex parte communications with the arbitrator.
The also paper discusses whether an arbitral award can become an order of the court without resorting to the procedure in s. 50 of the Ontario Arbitration Act, 1991, in any circumstance (even an ex parte award).
The authors are members of ELLYN LAW LLP Business Litigation & Arbitration Lawyers, a Toronto law firm, specializing in dispute resolution for small and medium businesses and their shareholders. The firm is a member of the International Network of Boutique Law Firms (www.inblf.com), a prestige network of specialized law firms who have demonstrated pre-eminence their practice fields. Ellyn Law LLP is INBLF’s designated Toronto firm for shareholder disputes and arbitration. The authors were counsel on Farah v Sauvageau, and have been counsel on various international arbitrations.
This paper is for information only. It is not legal advice. It was presented at a legal seminar presented in Toronto on October 26, 2012.
Basics of a Personal Injury Case - Tully Rinckey PLLC CLETully Rinckey
Be the attorney you dreamed of being. Jump start your career with Tully Rinckey PLLC:
http://www.tullylegal.com/careers/
June, 2015 - This course will be led by Tully Rinckey PLLC Partner Daniel J. Persing, Esq. Mr. Persing will draw upon his over thirty years of experience practicing in the field of personal injury as well as his experience with other fields of litigation including medical malpractice to assist attorneys of all levels of skill and experience in improving their legal knowledge regarding personal injury actions. Mr. Persing will provide guidance to attorneys on how to interview clients, conduct initial investigations, assess claims, serve pre-requisite notices, and carry out the eventual litigation of the claim. Mr. Persing will also provide insight into how to bring claims against New York State and municipalities.
This document outlines the legal authority for different personnel to apprehend, detain, and arrest suspects in various circumstances. Military police (MP) non-commissioned officers and officers can apprehend military suspects anytime, anywhere for violations of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) or federal/state law. All US Army Criminal Investigation Command (USACIDC) special agents can apprehend civilians on post for the same reasons. DoD civilian special agents have statutory arrest authority for military and civilian suspects under certain conditions specified by law. Non-MP and non-DoD law enforcement officers also have authority to apprehend or arrest suspects depending on the situation and their jurisdiction.
This waiver and release of liability document outlines the risks of participating in roller hockey organized by NorCal Extreme. It requires participants to waive any legal claims against NorCal Extreme, rink owners, landlords, directors, officers, employees, agents, volunteers, and others (collectively "Releasees") for injuries or damages resulting from participation. The document also requires participants to abide by rules, wear protective gear, hold Releasees harmless, and acknowledges the participant is aware of risks and in good health. A parent or guardian must also sign to waive claims on behalf of a minor applicant.
The Irrational Rationale: How the Military Hides Behind the Feres Doctrine to...Dallis Warshaw
Article published in the July issue of Orange County Lawyer magazine, providing an in-depth history and examination of the Feres doctrine, which bars lawsuits by service members seeking damages for sexual assault, the undisclosed administration of psychotropic drugs, negligent medical care and more because the injuries are seen as "incident to service."
A truck collided with a concrete-lined drainage ditch at the Mina Andaychagua zinc mine in Peru. The truck's front bumper was dented and its left headlight was broken. The driver reported the incident to the transport supervisor, who had the truck sent to the maintenance workshop. A review found the incident was an identified risk of mobile equipment loss of control. No injuries or fatalities occurred.
This complaint challenges actions taken around the 2014 Hawaii primary election that denied voters in certain precincts their right to vote due to Hurricane Iselle. It alleges that after the hurricane caused widespread power outages and road damage, preventing voters in Precincts 04-03 and 04-04 from accessing polls, defendants failed to take adequate steps to allow these voters to cast ballots. The complaint seeks a declaration that the relevant statute granting discretion to postpone elections is unconstitutional, and an injunction requiring defendants to provide a means for affected voters to vote before the September 20 deadline.
Commercial Arbitration is a process which depends on the consent of the parties. Only parties to the arbitration agreement can be affected by the arbitrator's award. In this article, the authors review a recent judgment of the Ontario Superior Court of Justice which set aside an arbitrator's award which made orders against third parties.
The case concerned a business transaction for the sale of a collection agency. The sale closed but the purchaser, a corporation operated by a lawyer, thought it had been defrauded by the seller. The purchaser commenced a claim in court attempting to place a certificate of pending litigation on the seller's house but then decided that he wished to arbitrate the dispute under the arbitration clause in the sale agreement.
After the arbitrator was consensually selected, the purchaser made a motion to the arbitrator without notice to seek a Mareva Injunction. A Mareva injunction is an order which restrains the defendant from disposing of his assets until the lawsuit has been concluded. It is typically obtained where there is reason to fear that the defendant will remove his assets from the jurisdiction before the case is completed and thereby avoid enforcement of any judgment which may be obtained. Typically, the order is also directed at banks and others who have financial dealings with the defendant, in the hope that they will freeze the defendant's accounts.
In the case discussed in the article, the claimant sought a Mareva injunction from the arbitrator without notice to the defendant. The arbitrator granted the order including an order directing banks to freeze the defendant's accounts. The claimant then filed the arbitrator's order in the court office without following the proper procedure to turn it into a court order. On a motion to the Court, the judge, the Hon. Justice Paul Perell, discussed in detail the principles affecting arbitral awards made without notice and whether an arbitrator can make an order which affects parties who are not involved in the arbitration. After an exhaustive analysis which is explained in the article, the Court decided that the arbitral order had to be set aside. The judge also called the arbitral award filed in the court office "bogus" because the correct procedure had not been followed.
Orie Niedzviecki, a partner of Ellyn Law LLP Business Litigation and Arbitration Lawyers, Toronto, and Evelyn Perez Youssoufian, an associate of the firm, were counsel for the seller. Assisted by Igor Ellyn, QC, CS, FCIArb., Senior Partner of Ellyn Law LLP, they explain the issues and legal principles enunciated by Justice Perell in this article.
In this paper, Toronto lawyers Evelyn Perez Youssoufian and Orie Niedzviecki discuss the impact of an important case in the commercial arbitration and the supervision of arbitration by the Superior Court of Justice of Ontario.
The Ontario Superior Court decision of Farah v Sauvageau Holdings Inc., 2011 ONSC 1819, resolves many issues regarding orders and awards in arbitration proceedings. The application was brought because there were novel issues raised in its underlying arbitration. In his decision, Justice Paul Perell addresses several important issues, some brought up at the Superior Court for the first time, which should be taken into account by both arbitrators and arbitral counsel when conducting an arbitration.
This paper discusses the issues of orders and awards in an arbitration as raised by Farah v Sauvageau; including an arbitrator's jurisdiction to make orders affecting non-parties, Mareva injunctions, Anton Piller orders, Norwich orders, orders for interim preservation of property or orders for Certificate of Pending Litigation. It also discusses whether it is or when it may be appropriate for arbitral counsel to have ex parte communications with the arbitrator.
The also paper discusses whether an arbitral award can become an order of the court without resorting to the procedure in s. 50 of the Ontario Arbitration Act, 1991, in any circumstance (even an ex parte award).
The authors are members of ELLYN LAW LLP Business Litigation & Arbitration Lawyers, a Toronto law firm, specializing in dispute resolution for small and medium businesses and their shareholders. The firm is a member of the International Network of Boutique Law Firms (www.inblf.com), a prestige network of specialized law firms who have demonstrated pre-eminence their practice fields. Ellyn Law LLP is INBLF’s designated Toronto firm for shareholder disputes and arbitration. The authors were counsel on Farah v Sauvageau, and have been counsel on various international arbitrations.
This paper is for information only. It is not legal advice. It was presented at a legal seminar presented in Toronto on October 26, 2012.
Basics of a Personal Injury Case - Tully Rinckey PLLC CLETully Rinckey
Be the attorney you dreamed of being. Jump start your career with Tully Rinckey PLLC:
http://www.tullylegal.com/careers/
June, 2015 - This course will be led by Tully Rinckey PLLC Partner Daniel J. Persing, Esq. Mr. Persing will draw upon his over thirty years of experience practicing in the field of personal injury as well as his experience with other fields of litigation including medical malpractice to assist attorneys of all levels of skill and experience in improving their legal knowledge regarding personal injury actions. Mr. Persing will provide guidance to attorneys on how to interview clients, conduct initial investigations, assess claims, serve pre-requisite notices, and carry out the eventual litigation of the claim. Mr. Persing will also provide insight into how to bring claims against New York State and municipalities.
The document summarizes the history and features of emergency powers in Malaysia. It discusses how emergency powers originated due to the 1948 insurgency and allow the executive to concentrate powers, legislate without ordinary constraints, and suspend fundamental liberties. Key amendments expanded these powers by removing time limits and increasing executive control. Judicial review is limited while parliamentary oversight is ineffective. Various emergencies were declared from 1964 to 1977 to deal with threats in Sarawak, post-1969 racial tensions, and a state political crisis in Kelantan.
“An empowered organization is one in which individuals have the knowledge, skill, desire, and opportunity to personally succeed in a way that leads to collective organizational success.” -- Stephen Covey
“The leaders who work most effectively, it seems to me, never say ‘I.’ And that’s not because they have trained themselves not to say ‘I.’ They don't think ‘I.’ They think ‘we’; they think ‘team.’ They understand their job to be to make the team function. They accept responsibility and don’t sidestep it, but ‘we’ gets the credit.... This is what creates trust, what enables you to get the task done.” -- Peter F. Drucker
“Good leaders make people feel that they’re at the very heart of things, not at the periphery. Everyone feels that he or she makes a difference to the success of the organization. When that happens people feel centered and that gives their work meaning.” -- Warren G. Bennis
Article II of the Constitution establishes the executive branch and outlines the powers and duties of the President. It specifies that the President must be a natural born citizen over 35 years old, serves a 4-year term, and is both head of state and head of government. As Commander-in-Chief, the President leads the military and appoints Cabinet members to advise on issues. The President can make treaties with approval from the Senate, nominate public officials with Senate consent, grant pardons, and ensure laws are enforced.
The document outlines rules and regulations regarding the ban on bearing, carrying, or transporting firearms or other deadly weapons, and the employment of security personnel during the election period for the May 13, 2013 elections in the Philippines. Specifically, it bans anyone from carrying firearms outside their residence during the election period, with exceptions for law enforcement and security personnel. It also bans candidates from employing private security guards during this time, again with exceptions. The document defines key terms, establishes the bodies responsible for implementing these rules, and outlines the specific circumstances under which firearms and security personnel are allowed.
Io,po and dh do's & don'ts and role in inquiry under D&ARMohandas Poonthiyil
The document provides guidance for Inquiry Officers, Presenting Officers, and Defence Helpers on their roles and responsibilities in departmental disciplinary proceedings. It outlines principles like natural justice, reasonable opportunity, and timeframes for inquiries. It discusses the purpose of inquiries, model procedures, and important dos and don'ts for completing inquiries expeditiously while protecting the charged officer's rights.
The document outlines the provisions of The Army Act, 1950 which governs the regular army in India, including its application to officers and personnel, definitions, provisions around commission, appointment and enrolment, conditions of service, service privileges, and offenses and punishments. It also discusses related provisions around jurisdiction under this Act and the Criminal Procedure Code.
The Legal Framework for the Operation of Unmanned Aircraft Systems, Morgan Jo...TWCA
The document summarizes the legal framework for operating unmanned aircraft systems (UAS or drones) in the United States. It discusses the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) regulations for UAS and how they have evolved since 1966. It also discusses state laws regulating drones, including recent Texas legislation. Some legal issues that drone operation may implicate are also outlined, such as property rights, privacy, and liability.
The document discusses various aspects that must be followed regarding charge sheets in departmental disciplinary proceedings against government employees. Some key points include:
- The charge sheet must be clear, precise and contain full particulars of the alleged misconduct.
- It must be issued by the competent disciplinary authority and served properly to the charged officer.
- Amendments to the charge sheet are allowed before the inquiry begins but major changes require a fresh charge sheet.
- The charge sheet and entire proceedings must be conducted carefully and in accordance with rules to avoid mistakes with serious consequences.
1) The document outlines the steps for conducting a departmental inquiry into employee misconduct, including examining complaints, preliminary investigation, drafting charge sheets, minor and major penalty proceedings, inquiry proceedings, and issuing final orders.
2) Key parts of the process include identifying the alleged misconduct, investigating the complaints, drafting specific charges, providing employees opportunities to respond to charges, conducting inquiries where employees deny charges, and imposing penalties or exoneration based on evidence.
3) Consultation with oversight agencies like the Central Vigilance Commission and Union Public Service Commission is also required at various stages of the process.
This is the final judgment of Oriel Jean Oriel Jean — the former security chief of ex-President Jean-Bertrand Aristide and whose testimony in U.S. courts a decade ago helped take down key figures in Haiti’s drug trafficking underworld
In 2005, Jean was sentenced to three years in prison in a money-laundering plea deal after helping the U.S. Attorney’s Office convict several Haitians and Colombians of moving tons of Colombian cocaine through Haiti to the United States.
At Jean’s November 2005 sentencing, U.S. District Judge Jose Martinez complimented him for his “good work.” In his court testimony, Jean indirectly implicated former Haitian President Jean Bertrand Aristide and also testified against him before the grand jury.
Across the line - Advocacy at U.S. ports of entry Greg McLawsen
When it comes to legal advocacy, United States ports of entry are an unfamiliar ballpark. There’re not even the same game. Foreign nationals have no right to legal representation. Attorneys have no right to be heard. In this unique niche of immigration law, outcomes may be determined by obscure memoranda and local practices. In this webinar we will learn the ropes of this advocacy from some of the country’s leading border advocacy experts; including how to prepare your client for successful border crossings, and how to advocate for your client when things have gone wrong. Featuring Greg Boos, Margaret Stock and Heather Fathali of Cascadia Cross-Border Law.
The document provides information about maritime injury claims and laws. It discusses several topics:
- The War Hazards Compensation Act which covers injuries to non-military workers performing jobs related to war efforts overseas. It provides maximum weekly and yearly compensation amounts.
- Occupational diseases longshoremen may contract and the information needed for a claim, including medical history and exposure details. Benefits provided under the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act are outlined.
- The Defense Base Act which is an extension of the LHWCA providing benefits to employees of US government contractors injured overseas. It has been amended over time to cover more contracts, companies and workers during various military engagements abroad.
This document discusses potential legal liability arising from the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. It outlines various environmental laws that could apply including the Oil Pollution Act, Clean Water Act, Endangered Species Act, and others. It examines which parties may be considered responsible under these statutes, such as BP as operator, Transocean as rig owner, and Halliburton as contractor. The document also reviews elements of liability, available damages, and penalties under these laws, which could total in the billions of dollars depending on whether gross negligence or willful misconduct is found.
Par JULIEN G. - Vendredi 12 novembre, dans une décision nationale, la Cour d’Appel fédérale du 5e circuit de la Nouvelle Orléans, a ordonné l’interruption de l’obligation vaccinale, imposée par l’administration Biden, dans le secteur privé. C’est un nouveau revers de taille pour Joe Biden, dont le seul recours possible est maintenant la Cour Suprême des États-Unis (SCOTUS)
This document provides an overview of whistleblower and retaliation protection. It defines a whistleblower as someone who reveals wrongdoing within an organization, and notes they are protected from retaliation under various workplace safety and other laws. It highlights a success story where the Labor Department sought damages for a wrongly terminated employee who filed an OSHA complaint. Information is also given on where and how to report issues of wrongdoing or retaliation.
The USS Guardian, a US Navy ship, ran aground on the Tubbataha Reefs in the Philippines in 2013 while transiting between ports. Petitioners claimed this caused environmental damage and violated their constitutional rights. The issues were whether the US could be held liable for damages under international law and whether immunity was waived by the Visiting Forces Agreement. The court ruled that the US was liable under UNCLOS customary international law as the ship violated Philippine law by entering a restricted area and causing damage. However, the individuals involved could not be sued due to sovereign immunity as satisfying any judgment would require action by the US government.
The document provides a writing portfolio for Shelley M. Riseden that includes a blog post, article, persuasive article, and pleading. The blog post discusses New Jersey's anti-bullying law and defines harassment, intimidation, or bullying. The article describes exceptions to search warrant requirements such as consent searches and probable cause vehicle searches. The persuasive article analyzes how the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act protects consumers' personal financial information. The pleading is a response to a motion to dismiss an administrative review complaint.
This document outlines the Seventh Fleet Liberty Policy established by Vice Admiral Swift. It cancels the previous Seventh Fleet Liberty Policy and returns many authorities to subordinate commanders. It establishes reporting requirements for any incidents that discredit the public image of US service members. It also requires units to develop remediation plans and critiques if incidents occur to identify risks and ensure standards are upheld. The intent is to shape sailor conduct while maintaining US relationships with host nations in the Seventh Fleet area of responsibility through leadership and management of liberty.
It is horrifying that we have to fight our own government to save the environment. - Ansel Adams
We are such spendthrifts with our lives, the trick of living is to slip on and off the planet with the least fuss you can muster. I'm not running for sainthood. I just happen to think that in life we need to be a little like the farmer, who puts back into the soil what he takes out. - Paul Newman
Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has. - Margaret Mead
This slideshow is for Doug Wakefield's Wednesday 4 Sept. 2013 presentation at the Safety Institute of Australia Ltd. Sydney Safety Conference 2013. The presentation attempts to capture current issues surrounding union rights-of-entry primarily for safety issues, but also industrial issues. The show has the running commentary embedded in the 'notes' pages. Enjoy this life! Doug
The document summarizes the history and features of emergency powers in Malaysia. It discusses how emergency powers originated due to the 1948 insurgency and allow the executive to concentrate powers, legislate without ordinary constraints, and suspend fundamental liberties. Key amendments expanded these powers by removing time limits and increasing executive control. Judicial review is limited while parliamentary oversight is ineffective. Various emergencies were declared from 1964 to 1977 to deal with threats in Sarawak, post-1969 racial tensions, and a state political crisis in Kelantan.
“An empowered organization is one in which individuals have the knowledge, skill, desire, and opportunity to personally succeed in a way that leads to collective organizational success.” -- Stephen Covey
“The leaders who work most effectively, it seems to me, never say ‘I.’ And that’s not because they have trained themselves not to say ‘I.’ They don't think ‘I.’ They think ‘we’; they think ‘team.’ They understand their job to be to make the team function. They accept responsibility and don’t sidestep it, but ‘we’ gets the credit.... This is what creates trust, what enables you to get the task done.” -- Peter F. Drucker
“Good leaders make people feel that they’re at the very heart of things, not at the periphery. Everyone feels that he or she makes a difference to the success of the organization. When that happens people feel centered and that gives their work meaning.” -- Warren G. Bennis
Article II of the Constitution establishes the executive branch and outlines the powers and duties of the President. It specifies that the President must be a natural born citizen over 35 years old, serves a 4-year term, and is both head of state and head of government. As Commander-in-Chief, the President leads the military and appoints Cabinet members to advise on issues. The President can make treaties with approval from the Senate, nominate public officials with Senate consent, grant pardons, and ensure laws are enforced.
The document outlines rules and regulations regarding the ban on bearing, carrying, or transporting firearms or other deadly weapons, and the employment of security personnel during the election period for the May 13, 2013 elections in the Philippines. Specifically, it bans anyone from carrying firearms outside their residence during the election period, with exceptions for law enforcement and security personnel. It also bans candidates from employing private security guards during this time, again with exceptions. The document defines key terms, establishes the bodies responsible for implementing these rules, and outlines the specific circumstances under which firearms and security personnel are allowed.
Io,po and dh do's & don'ts and role in inquiry under D&ARMohandas Poonthiyil
The document provides guidance for Inquiry Officers, Presenting Officers, and Defence Helpers on their roles and responsibilities in departmental disciplinary proceedings. It outlines principles like natural justice, reasonable opportunity, and timeframes for inquiries. It discusses the purpose of inquiries, model procedures, and important dos and don'ts for completing inquiries expeditiously while protecting the charged officer's rights.
The document outlines the provisions of The Army Act, 1950 which governs the regular army in India, including its application to officers and personnel, definitions, provisions around commission, appointment and enrolment, conditions of service, service privileges, and offenses and punishments. It also discusses related provisions around jurisdiction under this Act and the Criminal Procedure Code.
The Legal Framework for the Operation of Unmanned Aircraft Systems, Morgan Jo...TWCA
The document summarizes the legal framework for operating unmanned aircraft systems (UAS or drones) in the United States. It discusses the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) regulations for UAS and how they have evolved since 1966. It also discusses state laws regulating drones, including recent Texas legislation. Some legal issues that drone operation may implicate are also outlined, such as property rights, privacy, and liability.
The document discusses various aspects that must be followed regarding charge sheets in departmental disciplinary proceedings against government employees. Some key points include:
- The charge sheet must be clear, precise and contain full particulars of the alleged misconduct.
- It must be issued by the competent disciplinary authority and served properly to the charged officer.
- Amendments to the charge sheet are allowed before the inquiry begins but major changes require a fresh charge sheet.
- The charge sheet and entire proceedings must be conducted carefully and in accordance with rules to avoid mistakes with serious consequences.
1) The document outlines the steps for conducting a departmental inquiry into employee misconduct, including examining complaints, preliminary investigation, drafting charge sheets, minor and major penalty proceedings, inquiry proceedings, and issuing final orders.
2) Key parts of the process include identifying the alleged misconduct, investigating the complaints, drafting specific charges, providing employees opportunities to respond to charges, conducting inquiries where employees deny charges, and imposing penalties or exoneration based on evidence.
3) Consultation with oversight agencies like the Central Vigilance Commission and Union Public Service Commission is also required at various stages of the process.
This is the final judgment of Oriel Jean Oriel Jean — the former security chief of ex-President Jean-Bertrand Aristide and whose testimony in U.S. courts a decade ago helped take down key figures in Haiti’s drug trafficking underworld
In 2005, Jean was sentenced to three years in prison in a money-laundering plea deal after helping the U.S. Attorney’s Office convict several Haitians and Colombians of moving tons of Colombian cocaine through Haiti to the United States.
At Jean’s November 2005 sentencing, U.S. District Judge Jose Martinez complimented him for his “good work.” In his court testimony, Jean indirectly implicated former Haitian President Jean Bertrand Aristide and also testified against him before the grand jury.
Across the line - Advocacy at U.S. ports of entry Greg McLawsen
When it comes to legal advocacy, United States ports of entry are an unfamiliar ballpark. There’re not even the same game. Foreign nationals have no right to legal representation. Attorneys have no right to be heard. In this unique niche of immigration law, outcomes may be determined by obscure memoranda and local practices. In this webinar we will learn the ropes of this advocacy from some of the country’s leading border advocacy experts; including how to prepare your client for successful border crossings, and how to advocate for your client when things have gone wrong. Featuring Greg Boos, Margaret Stock and Heather Fathali of Cascadia Cross-Border Law.
The document provides information about maritime injury claims and laws. It discusses several topics:
- The War Hazards Compensation Act which covers injuries to non-military workers performing jobs related to war efforts overseas. It provides maximum weekly and yearly compensation amounts.
- Occupational diseases longshoremen may contract and the information needed for a claim, including medical history and exposure details. Benefits provided under the Longshore and Harbor Workers' Compensation Act are outlined.
- The Defense Base Act which is an extension of the LHWCA providing benefits to employees of US government contractors injured overseas. It has been amended over time to cover more contracts, companies and workers during various military engagements abroad.
This document discusses potential legal liability arising from the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico. It outlines various environmental laws that could apply including the Oil Pollution Act, Clean Water Act, Endangered Species Act, and others. It examines which parties may be considered responsible under these statutes, such as BP as operator, Transocean as rig owner, and Halliburton as contractor. The document also reviews elements of liability, available damages, and penalties under these laws, which could total in the billions of dollars depending on whether gross negligence or willful misconduct is found.
Par JULIEN G. - Vendredi 12 novembre, dans une décision nationale, la Cour d’Appel fédérale du 5e circuit de la Nouvelle Orléans, a ordonné l’interruption de l’obligation vaccinale, imposée par l’administration Biden, dans le secteur privé. C’est un nouveau revers de taille pour Joe Biden, dont le seul recours possible est maintenant la Cour Suprême des États-Unis (SCOTUS)
This document provides an overview of whistleblower and retaliation protection. It defines a whistleblower as someone who reveals wrongdoing within an organization, and notes they are protected from retaliation under various workplace safety and other laws. It highlights a success story where the Labor Department sought damages for a wrongly terminated employee who filed an OSHA complaint. Information is also given on where and how to report issues of wrongdoing or retaliation.
The USS Guardian, a US Navy ship, ran aground on the Tubbataha Reefs in the Philippines in 2013 while transiting between ports. Petitioners claimed this caused environmental damage and violated their constitutional rights. The issues were whether the US could be held liable for damages under international law and whether immunity was waived by the Visiting Forces Agreement. The court ruled that the US was liable under UNCLOS customary international law as the ship violated Philippine law by entering a restricted area and causing damage. However, the individuals involved could not be sued due to sovereign immunity as satisfying any judgment would require action by the US government.
The document provides a writing portfolio for Shelley M. Riseden that includes a blog post, article, persuasive article, and pleading. The blog post discusses New Jersey's anti-bullying law and defines harassment, intimidation, or bullying. The article describes exceptions to search warrant requirements such as consent searches and probable cause vehicle searches. The persuasive article analyzes how the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act protects consumers' personal financial information. The pleading is a response to a motion to dismiss an administrative review complaint.
This document outlines the Seventh Fleet Liberty Policy established by Vice Admiral Swift. It cancels the previous Seventh Fleet Liberty Policy and returns many authorities to subordinate commanders. It establishes reporting requirements for any incidents that discredit the public image of US service members. It also requires units to develop remediation plans and critiques if incidents occur to identify risks and ensure standards are upheld. The intent is to shape sailor conduct while maintaining US relationships with host nations in the Seventh Fleet area of responsibility through leadership and management of liberty.
It is horrifying that we have to fight our own government to save the environment. - Ansel Adams
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Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has. - Margaret Mead
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By December 1, 2013, employers must train workers on the new label elements and Safety Data Sheet (SDS) format required by the revised Hazard Communication Standard. The training must cover the revised product identifiers, pictograms, hazard and precautionary statements on labels, and the new 16-section format and contents of SDSs. Employers must provide training in a manner and language understandable to all employees. The Murphy Insurance Group can assist with HCS compliance training resources.
Check out this newsletter for a quick read on some recent OSHA updates. Murphy Insurance recently put on a free seminar regarding some of these updates so email me anytime at Leif.Erickson@MurphyInsurance.com to get yourself added to our seminar mailing list.
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The document discusses increased enforcement of environmental crimes by the EPA in fiscal year 2010 and expectations for 2011. It provides statistics on criminal cases opened, charges brought, penalties issued, and statutes most often violated in 2010. It notes that EPA plans to hire more criminal investigators in 2011. The document also outlines legal risks to companies and individuals, including vicarious liability, responsible corporate officer doctrine, and false statement charges. Significant prosecutions from 2010 involving oil spills, hazardous waste, and clean air/water violations are also summarized.
Secretary of the Navy Ray Mabus announced a new maternity leave policy that triples the amount of maternity leave for women in the Navy and Marine Corps to 18 weeks. The policy aims to recruit and retain talented women service members by providing more flexibility for their important role as mothers. It will apply retroactively to January 2015 and allows women to use a combination of maternity leave and extended sick leave following childbirth. The increased leave time benefits both mothers' and childrens' health and well-being, and also improves military readiness and retention.
Similar to Harley Marine Services Breaks Federal Law (20)
This document advertises a one-day Designated Person Ashore (DPA) course on Subchapter M regulations taking place on March 28, 2019 in New Orleans. The course will be led by special guest lecturer Jamie Halter and costs $300 for clients of Decatur Marine or $450 for non-clients. Interested parties are encouraged to register immediately as space is limited.
The Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals affirmed the decision of the Administrative Review Board that found Harley Marine Services terminated Captain Joseph Dady in violation of the Seaman's Protection Act. Dady was terminated after a barge he was towing allided with a dock while he was asleep off-watch. The Board found Harley knew Dady had engaged in protected whistleblowing activities regarding safety issues in the past and that this protected activity contributed to his termination. The Court upheld the Board's findings that substantial evidence supported its decision and ordering Dady's reinstatement.
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2024: The FAR - Federal Acquisition Regulations, Part 42
Harley Marine Services Breaks Federal Law
1.
2. Filing Whistleblower Complaints under the
Seaman’s Protection Act
Seamen are protected from retaliation for reporting alleged violations of maritime
safety laws or regulations.
Covered Employees
The Seaman’s Protection Act (SPA) prohibits persons
from retaliating against seamen for engaging in
certain protected activities pertaining to compliance
with maritime safety laws and regulations.
A seaman is any individual engaged or employed
in any capacity on board a U.S.-flag vessel or
any other vessel owned by a citizen of the United
States. For a definition of “citizen of the United
States” you should refer to 29 CFR 1986.101(d).
Protected Activity
A person may not discharge or in any other manner
retaliate against a seaman because the seaman:
• Provided information relating to a violation of
maritime safety laws or regulations to the U.S.
Coast Guard or other appropriate Federal agency
or department; refused to lie to the Government
about such matters; was about to provide such
information (including situations in which the
seaman provides information to the employer and
says he or she plans to report to the authorities or
when he or she has a history of such reporting);
or sought the correction of a condition which he
or she reasonably believes could result in serious
injury or serious impairment of health;
• Testified in a proceeding brought to enforce
a maritime safety law or regulation, including
making an internal complaint, such as to a
master, captain, or other supervisor, relating to a
violation of a maritime safety law or regulation;
• Refused to perform duties ordered because of
a reasonable apprehension of serious injury or
serious impairment of health to the seaman,
other seaman, or the public, if the seaman has
first requested that the employer correct the
dangerous condition;
• Notified or attempted to notify the vessel owner
or the U.S. Coast Guard of a work-related injury
or illness of a seaman;
• Cooperated with a safety investigation
by the U.S. Coast Guard or the National
Transportation Safety Board;
• Furnished information to any public official
relating to any marine casualty where there is
death, injury or damage to property, occurring in
connection with vessel transportation; or
• Accurately reported hours of duty under
Part A, Subtitle II, Title 46 of the Code of
Federal Regulations.
Unfavorable Employment Actions
A person may be found to have violated
SPA if the seaman’s protected activity was a
contributing factor in the person’s decision to
take an unfavorable employment action against
the seaman. An unfavorable employment action
(“adverse action”) is any action taken by an
employer which would dissuade a reasonable
employee from engaging in protected activity.
Such actions may include:
• Firing or laying off
• Blacklisting
• Demoting
• Denying overtime or promotion
• Disciplining
• Denying benefits
• Failure to hire or rehire
• Intimidation
• Making threats
• Reassignment affecting prospects for promotion
• Reducing pay or hours
Deadline for Filing Complaints
Complaints must be filed within 180 days after
the alleged unfavorable employment action
occurs (that is, when the seaman is notified of the
retaliatory action).
How to File a SPA Complaint
A seaman, or representative of a seaman, who
believes he or she has been retaliated against in
violation of SPA, may file a complaint with OSHA.
Complaints may be filed verbally with OSHA by
visiting or calling the local OSHA office at 1-800-
321-OSHA (6742), or may be filed in writing by
FactSheet
3. sending a written complaint to the closest OSHA
regional or area office, or filing a complaint online
at www.whistleblowers.gov/complaint_page.html.
Written complaints may be filed by facsimile,
electronic communication, hand delivery during
normal business hours, U.S. mail (confirmation
services recommended), or other third-party
commercial carrier.
The date of the postmark, facsimile, electronic
communication, telephone call, hand delivery,
delivery to a third-party commercial carrier, or
in-person filing at an OSHA office is considered
the date filed. No particular form is required and
complaints may be submitted in any language.
To file a complaint electronically, please visit
www.osha.gov/whistleblower/WBComplaint.html.
To contact OSHA to file a complaint, please call
1-800-321-OSHA (6742) and they will connect you
to the closest office; or visit www.osha.gov/html/
RAmap.html.
Upon receipt, OSHA will review the complaint to
determine whether it is appropriate to conduct
a fact-finding investigation (e.g., whether the
complaint was filed within 180 days; whether the
allegation is covered by SPA). All complaints are
investigated according to statutory requirements
explained in 29 CFR 1986.104.
Results of the Investigation
If the evidence supports a seaman’s claim of
retaliation and a voluntary settlement cannot
be reached, OSHA will issue an order requiring
reinstatement, as well as other possible relief to
make the seaman whole, including:
• Payment of back pay with interest.
• Compensation for special damages, to include
attorney’s fees, and other expenses the seaman
may have incurred as a result of the violation.
• Punitive damages of up to $250,000.
OSHA’s findings and order become a final order of
the Secretary of Labor unless either party objects to
the findings within 30 days. An order to reinstate is
effective immediately, regardless of any objection.
After OSHA issues the findings and order,
either party may request a full hearing before a
Department of Labor (DOL) Administrative Law
Judge (ALJ). If OSHA has issued merit findings,
OSHA (represented by a DOL attorney) will
ordinarily prosecute the case, but the parties retain
their rights to litigate. Any party, including OSHA,
may petition for review of the ALJ decision by
the Department’s Administrative Review Board
(ARB). Decisions of the ARB, as well as unreviewed
decisions of ALJs, may be appealed to the
appropriate United States Court of Appeals.
If a final agency order is not issued within 210
days from the date the seaman’s complaint is
filed with OSHA, then the seaman may be able to
file a civil action in the appropriate United States
District Court.
To Get Further Information
For a copy of the Seaman’s Protection Act (46 U.S.C.
§2114), the regulations (29 CFR 1986), and other
information, go to www.whistleblowers.gov.
OSHA’s Whistleblower Protection Program
enforces the whistleblower provisions of more
than twenty federal whistleblower laws. To
learn more about the whistleblower statutes
which OSHA enforces, view our “Whistleblower
Statutes Desk Aid” at www.whistleblowers.gov/
whistleblower_acts-desk_reference.pdf.
For information on the Office of Administrative
Law Judges procedures and case law research
materials, go to www.oalj.dol.gov and click on the
link for “Whistleblower Collection.”
For information on maritime safety laws and
regulations, visit the U.S. Coast Guard’s website
at www.uscg.mil and the Bureau of Safety and
Environmental Enforcement’s (BSEE) website at
www.bsee.gov.
If you have questions or need more information,
visit our website at www.whistleblowers.gov or
call OSHA at 1-800-321-6742.
Under the Occupational Safety and Health
Act of 1970, employers are responsible for
providing safe and healthful workplaces for
their employees. OSHA’s role is to help ensure
these conditions for America’s working men and
women by setting and enforcing standards, and
providing training, education, and assistance. For
more information, visit www.osha.gov.
DWPP FS-3762 08/2018
This is one in a series of informational fact sheets highlighting OSHA programs, policies or standards.
It does not impose any new compliance requirements. For a comprehensive list of compliance
requirements of OSHA standards or regulations, refer to Title 29 of the Code of Federal Regulations.
This information will be made available to sensory-impaired individuals upon request. The voice phone
is (202) 693-1999; teletypewriter (TTY) number: 1-877-889-5627.
4. FindLaw Caselaw United States US 11th Cir.
HARLEY MARINE SERVICES INC v. DEPARTMENT OF LABOR ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW BOARD JOSEPH DADY
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HARLEY MARINE SERVICES INC v. DEPARTMENT OF
LABOR ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW BOARD JOSEPH
DADY
United States Court of Appeals, Eleventh Circuit.
HARLEY MARINE SERVICES, INC., Petitioner, v. U.S. DEPARTMENT OF LABOR,
ADMINISTRATIVE REVIEW BOARD, JOSEPH D. DADY, Captain, Respondents.
No. 15-14110
Decided: January 26, 2017
Before WILSON and JULIE CARNES, Circuit Judges, and TREADWELL, * District Judge.
Pursuant to 49 U.S.C. § 31105(d), Harley Marine Services, Inc. (Harley) seeks review of the Secretary of Labor's
final order that Harley terminated the employment of Captain Joseph Dady in violation of the Seaman's
Protection Act (SPA), 46 U.S.C. § 2114. After thorough review and with the benefit of oral argument, the
Secretary's determination is affirmed.
I.
Dady was a tug captain for Harley.1 On October 12, 2010, Dady's mate ran the barge they were towing into a
dock, an allision in maritime terminology,2 while Dady was asleep and off-watch. The mate, as well as the rest
of Dady's crew, then failed to timely report the allision to Dady or Harley. When Dady later towed the now oil-
laden barge out to sea, the barge began to take on water due to a puncture from the allision. This is when Dady
first learned of the allision. Dady followed procedure upon learning of the allision, and the barge was saved.
Harley sent an investigator, Captain Graham, to determine the reason the allision had not been timely
reported. Graham determined that even though Dady was asleep and off-watch, he should be held responsible
for the failure to report and should be discharged, which Harley promptly did.
Dady filed a whistleblower complaint with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, alleging that he
had been terminated in retaliation for engaging in activities protected by the SPA. OSHA disagreed, and Dady
filed an objection and requested a hearing before an administrative law judge. After a three-day evidentiary
hearing, the ALJ agreed with Dady and ordered his reinstatement. Harley appealed to the Administrative
Review Board (ARB), which affirmed.
On appeal, Harley argues that the ARB erred in concluding that: (1) substantial evidence supported the ALJ's
finding that Harley knew that Dady engaged in protected activity; (2) substantial evidence supported the ALJ's
finding that protected activity contributed to the termination of Dady's employment; (3) substantial evidence
supported the ALJ's finding that Harley did not prove by clear and convincing evidence that it would have fired
Dady regardless of the protected activity; and (4) that reinstatement was an appropriate remedy.
II.
Under the Administrative Procedure Act, we review whether the Secretary's “action[s], findings, and
conclusions” are “arbitrary, capricious, an abuse of discretion, or otherwise not in accordance with law.” 5
U.S.C. § 706(2)(A). On an appeal following an evidentiary hearing, this means “[w]e conduct de novo review of
the Secretary of Labor's legal conclusions, but we test the Secretary's factual findings for substantial evidence”
in the agency record. Stone & Webster Const., Inc. v. U.S. Dep't of Labor, 684 F.3d 1127, 1132 (11th Cir. 2012);
see 5 U.S.C. § 706(2)(E); see also Atlanta Gas Light Co. v. FERC, 140 F.3d 1392, 1397 (11th Cir. 1998) (noting
that the substantial evidence standard “is no more than a recitation of the application of the ‘arbitrary and
capricious' standard to factual findings” (quoting Md. People's Counsel v. FERC, 761 F.2d 768, 774 (D.C. Cir.
1985))); Ass'n of Data Processing Serv. Orgs., Inc. v. Bd. of Governors of the Fed. Reserve Sys., 745 F.2d 677,
684 (D.C. Cir. 1984) (“The distinctive function of paragraph (E)—what it achieves that paragraph (A) does
not—is to require substantial evidence to be found within the record of closed-record proceedings to which it
exclusively applies.”).
Substantial evidence is “more than a mere scintilla. It means such relevant evidence as a reasonable mind
might accept as adequate to support a conclusion.” Thus, substantial evidence exists even when two
inconsistent conclusions can be drawn from the same evidence. The substantial evidence standard limits the
reviewing court from “deciding the facts anew, making credibility determinations, or re-weighing the
evidence.”
Stone & Webster Const., Inc., 684 F.3d at 1133 (citations omitted).
III.
There are four elements to Dady's SPA retaliation claim: (1) Dady engaged in protected activity; (2) Harley
knew of the protected activity; (3) Dady suffered an adverse employment action; and (4) the protected activity
contributed to the adverse employment action. See 46 U.S.C. § 2114; 49 U.S.C. §§ 31105(b), 42121(b).3 An
employer can defeat an SPA claim by demonstrating by clear and convincing evidence that the employer would
have taken the same personnel action in the absence of the protected activity. Id.
IV.
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HARLEY MARINE SERVICES INC v. DEPARTMENT OF LABOR... https://caselaw.findlaw.com/us-11th-circuit/1768485.html
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5. A. Harley's Stipulation of Protected Activity
Harley stipulated before the ALJ that Dady engaged in protected activity. As the ALJ explained in his order:
[Harley] stipulated that it does not contest the issue of protected activity. [Harley] listed, at RX 24 (Corrected),
the only protected activity it understood [Dady] to be alleging: (1) [Dady]'s direct complaint in January 2009 to
the U.S. Coast Guard that [Harley] dumped raw sewerage in New York Harbor; (2) steering failure in April
2010; (3) report regarding issues with QMs in May 2010; (4) and [Dady]'s request to a local union
representative to complain to the Coast Guard in Seattle about inadequate crewing of [Harley]'s vessel. I accept
that the four activities above constitute protected activity. [Dady] clarified, at the hearing, that the subject
matter of the fourth protected activity stipulated to—improper crewing—includes both improper lookout and
violations of the 12-hour work rule. See Tr. at 215. [Harley's New York General Manager] testified that it was
his understanding that improper lookout is a subset of the manning issue. Id. at 746.
ALJ Decision at 30, HMS App. Vol. I.
In its post-trial briefing, Harley appeared to back away from its stipulation of protected activity, an effort the
ALJ noted and rejected:
[Harley] repeatedly raises the question of whether the protected activities actually took place (e.g., “Captain
Dady appeared to testify that he reported [the incident related to sewage] to the Coast Guard at some unknown
time, but the record contains no other proof in this regard.” Post-trial Brief at 10-12 (emphasis in original)).
However, since [Harley] stipulated to the protected activities, they will be presumed to have taken place for the
purpose of analyzing employer knowledge.
Id. at 30 n.4.
Harley seems to resurrect this strategy on appeal, arguing in its briefs that it “stipulated only that element (1)
was satisfied – that [Dady] engaged in protected activity,” but that “[w]ith respect to [Dady]'s allegations of
protected activity, [Harley] did not stipulate to any ‘assertions made therein.’ ” HMS Opening Brief at 14.
Indeed, many of Harley's arguments in its briefs and at oral argument weave in assertions that Dady did not
engage in the stipulated protected activities, subtly challenging the ALJ's interpretation of the stipulation. At
oral argument, when asked to explain its position on this issue, Harley maintained that the ALJ abused his
discretion when, for example, he concluded that Harley had stipulated that Dady's protected activity included
complaining to the Coast Guard about improper or inadequate crewing on Harley's boats. The Court disagrees.
In a letter dated February 20, 2013, Harley stipulated: “For purposes of this matter only, ․ that element ‘(1)
Protected Activity’ is satisfied, meaning that it will not challenge that element (that the complainant engaged in
protected activity). By so stipulating [Harley] is not affirming that any of the alleged protected activity was
correct in any assertions made therein, or otherwise even occurred for purposes outside this matter.”
Stipulation Letter, HMS App. Vol. I (emphasis added). Harley offered no clarification when it entered the
stipulation on the record at trial. See ALJ Tr. 14:13-19, HMS App. Vol. I.
The ALJ reasonably interpreted Harley's stipulation. Indeed, no other interpretation makes sense. Harley
stipulated in “this matter” that Dady engaged in protected activity, thus relieving Dady of his burden to prove
that he had. Thus, when the ALJ moved to the second element of Dady's claim, employer knowledge, the
question the ALJ addressed was whether Harley had knowledge of the stipulated protected activity. Under the
interpretation of the stipulation urged by Harley, Dady, to prove employer knowledge, would have to first
prove that he had engaged in the same protected activity that Harley had stipulated to for the purpose of the
first element of Dady's claim. Clearly, this interpretation renders the stipulation meaningless. In short,
Harley's stipulation that Dady engaged in his “alleged protected activity” in “this matter” established exactly
that.
B. Employer Knowledge and Contributing Factor
Given that the ALJ properly interpreted Harley's stipulation of protected activity, the question of whether Dady
established the remaining elements of his claim is straightforward. Substantial evidence supports the
Secretary's conclusion that Harley knew of Dady's stipulated protected activities, most particularly, Dady's
inadequate crewing complaints to the Transportation Safety Advisory Committee. As noted by the ALJ, Dady
made numerous internal complaints about his inadequate crewing concerns and followed up on them
internally. Much to Harley's chagrin, Dady even mentioned his inadequate lookout concerns to the media.4
Harley's management was aware of Dady's previous official reporting of sewage-runoff and steering-failure
violations, and thus was aware of Dady's propensity to file official reports. Dady's official-reporting propensity
and persistence in addressing his inadequate crewing concerns, internally and with the public, is substantial
circumstantial evidence that Harley decision-makers knew that Dady had officially reported or would report
the issues he had raised.
Similarly, substantial evidence supports the Secretary's determination that Dady's protected activities were a
contributing factor in Dady's discharge. Dady worked for Harley for a little over three years. Over the course of
his employment, he engaged in a course of protected activities, and these activities drew animus from Harley
officials. For example, the operations engineer for Harley's New York operation expressed displeasure that
Dady had reported the steering failure to the Coast Guard, referring to him as “a pain in the ass.” OSHA Tr.
46:15-24, HMS App. Vol. III. Also, other employees who reported problems were labeled as being “as bad as
Dady.” Id. at 46:24-47:3.5
It appears that the “last straw” occurred shortly before the allision, when Dady discussed his inadequate
lookout concerns with the media. Substantial evidence supports the ALJ's finding that Harley Franco or his
sister Deborah Franco, Harley's two top-ranking executives, near the end of September, 2010, conveyed their
displeasure and their desire to fire Dady regarding his discussions with the media. The ALJ painstakingly
details substantial evidence that the allision investigation was a witch-hunt to support Dady's predetermined
termination. Under these facts, the ALJ reasonably concluded that the allision, a month after the threat to fire
Dady for his media contacts, was simply the first excuse Harley found to terminate Dady. Similarly, the ALJ
reasonably concluded that because Dady would not drop his crewing concerns (but rather was following up on
them internally, with the media, and through official reporting), Harley fired him. While Dady's going public
with the concerns may have been the last straw, the ALJ reasonably concluded that Dady's official reporting
was another, overlapping straw; in other words, it was a contributing factor.
Accordingly, substantial evidence supports the ALJ's conclusion that Harley knew that Dady was officially
reporting his inadequate crewing concerns, and that this knowledge was a contributing factor in Harley's
decision to fire Dady.
C. Harley's Asserted Independent Nondiscriminatory Reasons
HARLEY MARINE SERVICES INC v. DEPARTMENT OF LABOR... https://caselaw.findlaw.com/us-11th-circuit/1768485.html
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