Parties in a federal class action lawsuit involving alleged labor violations at Bob Evans Restaurants have reached a settlement of $5 million. The lawsuit encompassed employees from various locations, including the Bob Evans at 357 E State St. in Athens.
The lawsuit contended that Bob Evans employees were classified as tipped workers, resulting in lower wages below the minimum wage. However, these employees were frequently assigned nontipped duties during their shifts.
Despite the settlement, Bob Evans maintains its denial of all claims made in the lawsuit, as stated in the settlement agreement.
The settlement is currently pending final approval from the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania. Notable among the plaintiffs are Rebecca Bailey and Regina Jensen, who formerly worked at the Athens Bob Evans location. Jensen also had employment at a Parkersburg, West Virginia location, where she was joined by another plaintiff, Vickie Rash.
