NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell speaks during a press conference upfront of Super Bowl LVII at Phoenix Convention Center on February 08, 2023 in Phoenix, Arizona.
Peter Casey | Getty Images Sport | Getty Images
The attorneys general of Latest York and California said Thursday that they had opened an investigation into the workplace practices and culture of the National Football League, including claims of gender discrimination.
The AGs have issued subpoenas to the NFL in reference to the probe.
“The joint investigation will examine the workplace culture of the NFL and allegations made by former employees, including potential violations of federal and state pay equity laws and anti-discrimination laws,” a press release issued by the AGs said.
Latest York AG Letitia James said, “No one should ever need to endure harassment, discrimination, or abuse within the workplace. Irrespective of how powerful or influential, no institution is above the law, and we are going to make sure the NFL is held accountable.”
The NFL has greater than 1,000 employees in offices in Latest York and California, the AGs noted.
Thursday’s press release cited a February 2022 Latest York Times article that detailed how greater than 30 women who previously worked for the NFL claimed they suffered gender discrimination and retaliation after filing complaints with the league’s human resources office.
Also last 12 months, a congressional committee found that for many years the workplace of the Washington Commanders team owned by Dan Snyder had tolerated “sexual harassment, bullying, and other toxic conduct.”
California AG Rob Bonta said Thursday that the AGs have “serious concerns in regards to the NFL’s role in creating a particularly hostile and detrimental work environment.”
“No company is just too big or popular to avoid being held liable for their actions,” Bonta said.
In a press release, the NFL said the “allegations are entirely inconsistent with the NFL’s values and practices.”
“The NFL offices are places where employees of all genders, races and backgrounds thrive. We don’t tolerate discrimination in any form,” the league said. “The NFL is committed to making sure all employees of the league are respected, treated fairly, and have equitable pay and access to developmental opportunities. Our policies are intended not only to comply with all applicable laws but to foster a workplace free from harassment, intimidation and discrimination.”
That is breaking news. Check back for updates.
