US judge denies Meta workers' bid to block layoffs during AI discrimination lawsuit

Published Jul 18, 04:51 AM UTC

A U.S. federal judge in Oakland, California, denied a request by 26 Meta employees to temporarily block the company from laying them off while they pursue claims that Meta used AI-powered tools to target workers with disabilities or those who took medical leave for job cuts. Judge William Orrick ruled that the workers failed to demonstrate 'irreparable harm' required for an emergency order. The layoffs, affecting about 8,000 employees (10% of Meta's workforce), are part of Meta's increased investment in AI. The lawsuit, filed on Monday, is believed to be the first in the U.S. challenging the use of AI in conducting layoffs. The plaintiffs argued they would lose stock options and health insurance, but Meta countered that damages could be recovered later in arbitration. The judge indicated he might reconsider based on further evidence about AI's role. The case proceeds in private arbitration.