TAMPA – A former employee has filed a lawsuit against the City of Tampa alleging she was discriminated against and terminated from her position in retaliation for seeking FMLA leave.

Scarlett Lopez filed a lawsuit in federal court against the City of Tampa, citing allegations of disability discrimination, retaliation, and pregnancy-related discrimination in violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act, Pregnancy Discrimination Act, Family Medical Leave Act and the Florida Civil Rights Act.

According to court documents, Lopez began her employment with the city and worked as a senior executive aide for at least 1,250 hours in the 12 months preceding her request for leave under FMLA. In her lawsuit, Lopez recounts her positive employment history with the city, receiving commendable performance evaluations and promotions prior to seeking FMLA leave.