Anarchy Online: Employee Takes a Bite Out of Bronto Burger

Some may recall a lawsuit filed by a Bronto Burger Employee against the company for it's failure to provide a 'safe working environment' that was filed in February of this year. Initially, Omni-Admin reviewed the claim and expected it's legal department to have a ruling within a week. Due to political turmoil, and changes in Omni policy regarding policing it's citizens, the ruling was delayed... until now.

"I'm very happy that people agree with me on this issue. An employer has a legal and contractual obligation to provide a safe environment for it's employees and customers. I hope other employees will start pressing their bosses for better conditions as well." said Anita Huskaverna as she left the Court Chamber this morning. She has successfully sued Bronto Burger Inc. for four-hundred million credits. How you ask? A single line in her employment contract.

After a lengthy section on employee requirements and regulations, there is a statement of obligation by the company to the employee. One line reads "BB will take all steps possible to provide a clean, and safe environment for our employees and customers to prevent accidents, harm, or injury."

Bronto Burger Inc. is now filing a related suit against Omni-Pol for not policing the area in question effectively. Bronto Burger Inc. Legal Advisor Wahrk Fergnatz had this to say "Our company is not about providing military force to guard a Burger stand of all things, it's about providing enjoyable food at reasonable prices to the people of Rubi-Ka. We shouldn't be held liable for assault on our staff when there are black armored, pin headed troopers FIVE feet away holding weaponry that can sear the crust off a mountain that do NOTHING. Omni-Pol troopers are CLEARLY lazy, ineffective and responsible for protecting citizens within these cities. They are not doing that, and we demand restitution for this incident."

When asked if Bronto Burger would take disciplinary action against Ms. Huskaverna, Mr. Fergnatz replied "We are not legally able to do such a thing. However, with her newfound wealth, I doubt she'll continue employment of her own accord."

Mister Fergnatz went on to discuss the ruling itself, "I think this sets a very dangerous precedent. If employees can assail their companies over such issues to THIS extent, even when the company has no jurisdiction providing what's being demanded, then who can say where it will end? Will all new employees be able to demand settlement from Omni-Tek simply because going on missions is dangerous? I personally think you have to draw the line somewhere, and I seriously question the methods, motives, and well... frankly, sanity, of the presiding Judges in this case. I plan to appeal their choice and will press my suit against Omni-Pol very hard. No further comments."

A dangerous precedent indeed. It appears that many other food service providers and various retailers are preparing similar suits do to this sort of abuse from customers. IRRK's resident Cultural Psychologist Wendy Asahi offered this thought "Rubi-ka is a violent place, in constant upheaval. Normal people want nothing more than to live a decent life, and be left alone. But you can't do that here. Everyone is in battle, everyone is exploring, everyone is in a constant aggravated state, and they take it out on each other. They take it out on those who can't fight back especially, like general workers, service providers and such. It's a sad state of affairs that feeds itself. Unless there is a cultural and ethical awakening, things will only get worse".

But at least for one Burger jock there is a happy ending. Ms. Huskaverna concluded her day in Court with this statement. "I'm buying an estate off-world, and I'm going to enjoy it. Good bye Rubi-ka."

Thanks to Grehg Burset for reporting on this.