Kennedy v. Braidwood Management, Inc.

On June 27, 2025, the United States Supreme Court granted certiorari in Kennedy v. Braidwood Management, Inc. The case involves an employee, Kennedy, who filed a lawsuit against their employer, Braidwood Management, Inc., alleging a failure to provide a reasonable accommodation for their religious practices, resulting in constructive discharge. The dispute centers on the interpretation of employer obligations under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 regarding religious accommodations, specifically examining the threshold of "undue hardship" an employer must demonstrate to deny an accommodation request. The petition challenges a lower court's ruling that granted summary judgment in favor of the employer, re-igniting debate over the scope of religious liberty protections in the workplace.

As of June 27, 2025, the United States Supreme Court has granted a writ of certiorari, agreeing to hear the case. The final merits decision is pending.

The central dispute focuses on the legal standard for "undue hardship" under Title VII's religious accommodation requirement. The case questions whether an employer can deny an accommodation based on minimal costs or scheduling difficulties, or if a more demanding, significant-difficulty-or-expense standard applies, following the precedent set in Groff v. DeJoy.

The case has significant implications for religious liberty and employment law in the United States, potentially redefining the boundaries of workplace religious accommodations. It has galvanized advocacy groups on both sides, with religious organizations viewing it as crucial for protecting faith in the workplace, while business groups express concern over increased operational burdens. The Supreme Court's eventual ruling will likely set a landmark precedent affecting millions of American workers and employers.