New York State’s attorney general can continue her investigation into whether Amazon prioritized profits over safety in connection with its actions regarding employees and COVID-19.
A U.S. district judge in Brooklyn rejected Amazon‘s attempt to stop Attorney General Letitia James’ investigation, according to Reuters.
“The state has a legitimate interest in ensuring that employers are complying with state labor laws, are enforcing health safety measures, and are sanctioned for illegal conduct that occurs within the state,” the judge wrote.
Amazon argued federal laws pre-empted James’ investigation.
A spokeswoman for Amazon said the company cares deeply about its employees’ health and safety, and is proud of its pandemic response.
James sued Amazon in February in connection with the company’s alleged treatment of thousands of workers at centers in Staten Island and Queens.
The attorney general accused Amazon of prioritizing profits over safety.
James claims Amazon improperly disciplined two employees who protected working conditions and fired one of them.
The attorney general seeks a court-appointed safety monitor for Amazon.
