> can these workers then in turn SUE employer for illegal firing? <
I think they can sue if the employee has a contract (a union contract or some other kind of agreement). But even then there might be some “health and safety” clause in the contract.
But otherwise, I don’t see how a lawsuit could be successful.
That’s a bluff because if companies try that, then they will face litigation that will cost them more than if they just paid unemployment for 1 year.
For example the average unemployment is $320 a week before taxes. That comes to $1,200 a month x 12 = 14k a year.
That 14k is cheaper to pay, than facing lawsuit after lawsuit. The companies have to pay the Attorney’s and not only risk losing but paying way more. Believe me they rather settle out of court.
It’s called risk vs. reward.
I would sue based on descrimination of the unvaxxed. Violation of civil rights!