Reference no: EM131696248

An auto worker who had been on FMLA leave for a serious health condition was given clearance by her doctor and reported to work on June 27, 2000. She had previously worked on the engine line in a position that accommodated physical restrictions that she had from a back injury. The employee was told that no such positions were currently available. A "placement review" was conducted, but a position was not found until July 26. She returned to the engine line on July 31. However, this was a part-time position and she did not resume full-time work on the engine line until September 18. The employer contends that this delay was due to the combination of her unexpected return, a changeover in models that affected the production process, and the difficulty of finding a position that accommodated her physical restrictions. The employee sues. What should the court decide? Why