Opinion ID: 662719
Heading Depth: 4
Heading Rank: 2

Heading: Lydall's discharge of Mitchell

Text: 13 The parties dispute whether Mitchell was discharged or whether he resigned. Assuming that Mitchell was discharged, the record indicates that Mitchell was discharged not on the basis of his handicapping condition, but rather for his insubordination (walking out of the meeting). The Act makes clear that employers have an affirmative defense to a discrimination claim when a handicapped person fails to comply with or meet the employer's work rules and policies or performance standards, provided that such person is not held to rules or standards different from other non-handicapped employees similarly employed.... Id. On the discharge issue, the district court concluded: It is undisputed that insubordination is reason enough for dismissal and Mitchell forecasts no evidence to show that he was treated differently than any other employee as to insubordination. We agree.