Federal Officials Sue Sheetz Convenience Store Chain for Alleged Discrimination Against Minority Job Applicants

The Sheetz convenience store chain is facing a lawsuit from federal officials who allege the company discriminated against minority job applicants. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission filed suit against Sheetz Inc., which operates over 700 stores in six states, for allegedly automatically rejecting Black, Native American, and multiracial applicants based on criminal background checks.

President Joe Biden even made a stop at a Sheetz store this week while campaigning in Pennsylvania, highlighting the significance of the case. Sheetz has denied the allegations, stating that they do not tolerate discrimination of any kind and that diversity and inclusion are essential to their company values.

The lawsuit, filed in federal court, accuses Sheetz of violating Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 by disproportionately impacting minority applicants with their hiring practices. The EEOC is seeking to compel Sheetz to offer jobs to unlawfully denied applicants and provide back pay and other benefits.

The agency’s investigation found that Black, multiracial, and Native American job seekers were denied employment at higher rates than white applicants due to failed criminal background checks. Despite attempts to settle the matter, the EEOC decided to pursue legal action against Sheetz.

This case serves as a reminder of the importance of fair hiring practices and the consequences of discrimination in the workplace. Sheetz’s response to these allegations and the outcome of the lawsuit will be closely watched as the company navigates this legal challenge.