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

Published Jul 19, 11:06 AM UTC

A U.S. federal judge in Oakland, California, denied a request by 26 Meta employees to temporarily block their layoffs while they pursue claims that the company used AI 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 set to begin July 22. The lawsuit, believed to be the first challenging AI use in layoffs, alleges Meta relied on AI productivity metrics and token usage to disadvantage employees on medical or family leave. Meta denies wrongdoing, stating human managers made decisions. The judge left open the possibility of reconsidering based on further evidence about AI's role. The workers' claims will proceed in private arbitration.