Two lawyers reach agreement and shake hands over a cluttered desk.

A discrimination lawsuit brought against the Bloomfield School District in New Jersey has been settled, with the district agreeing to pay $150,000 to David Quinlan, a janitor with intellectual disabilities who worked for the district for 35 years.

Quinlan, 72, had been employed as a per-diem, minimum-wage worker throughout his decades of service, despite performing the same duties as other custodians who earned significantly more and received full benefits. His family filed the lawsuit in 2022, alleging that the district had taken advantage of Quinlan's vulnerability and cognitive limitations.

The lawsuit, settled this month, claimed that the district violated New Jersey's Law Against Discrimination by treating Quinlan differently than other custodians. It also alleged wrongful termination, stating that Quinlan was forced to stop working after a hospitalization due to a lack of paid leave.

Quinlan’s attorney, Eric Kleiner, stated that the settlement will help support Quinlan as he ages and faces health challenges. The Bloomfield School District, while agreeing to the settlement, continues to deny any wrongdoing.

Quinlan began working for the district in 1985 but never received health benefits, a pension, vacation days, or sick leave. His hourly wage increased from $7 to $12 over 35 years. His sister and legal guardian, Patricia Mandara, emphasized Quinlan's dedication to his job, which provided him with a sense of purpose and routine.

Advocates for the disabled community have expressed concerns about the case, highlighting the challenges faced by workers with intellectual disabilities in obtaining equal treatment and fair compensation. Mercedes Witowsky, executive director of the New Jersey Council on Developmental Disabilities, welcomed the settlement and hoped it would send a message about the importance of fair treatment.

The school district, in legal filings, denied allegations of exploitation, stating that Quinlan was paid for the hours he worked and was not entitled to benefits. They also claimed that Quinlan voluntarily resigned.

The settlement allocates $100,000 to Quinlan and $50,000 to his attorneys.