A class-action lawsuit filed by military service members against Southwest Airlines has led to a major settlement that will provide short-term military leave for employees starting next year. Under the agreement, Southwest will offer up to 10 days of paid military leave and pay $18.5 million in compensation to nearly 2,800 current and former employees who claimed their rights under the Uniformed Services and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA) were violated. The settlement still requires court approval.
The case, which began in 2019, was led by plaintiff Jayson Huntsman, who said he pursued the lawsuit to benefit other service members despite facing personal attacks and challenges along the way. Huntsman emphasized that short-term military leave will help Reserve and National Guard members manage the financial strain often associated with service commitments. The settlement is seen as a landmark in USERRA protections, establishing a paid-leave policy that could influence other airlines and civilian employers nationwide. Huntsman also stressed the importance of service members knowing their workplace rights, noting that the case aims to ensure fairness, respect, and reduced stress for those serving in the military.