Meta used AI to target workers with medical conditions for layoffs, lawsuit claims

[groundloop]

Source: Reuters

Twenty-six employees of Meta ‌Platforms have filed a novel lawsuit accusing the tech giant of using AI-powered software that disproportionately targeted people with disabilities or who took medical leave in selecting workers for mass layoffs.

The lawsuit, filed in Oakland, California, federal court late Monday, says that the company ​relied on factors such as productivity and AI token usage when it slashed thousands of jobs earlier this ​year, disadvantaging people who missed work because of medical conditions or to care for family ⁠members.

The plaintiffs, who were notified in May that their jobs would be eliminated starting on July 22, ​are seeking a preliminary ruling from the court blocking Meta from completing the layoffs while they pursue their ​claims in private arbitration. The workers say Meta's agreements require employees to arbitrate workplace disputes individually, but do not apply to requests for temporary relief.

A Meta spokesperson on Tuesday said the claims lack merit.

Read more: https://www.reuters.com/world/meta-used-ai-target-workers-with-medical-conditions-layoffs-former-employees-2026-07-14/

[RockCreek]

1. Why wouldn't they? This is Meta.

And if they can sell the algorithms they used to do it, without getting caught, they will.

[fujiyamasan]

2. It's great that they're suing and hope they win

But c’mon you gotta know who you’re working for when you sign up to work for Meta of all places, lol,

[sakabatou]

3. Not surprised

It should be fucking illegal to do that.