TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier’s office has announced a negotiated resolution of a 2025 lawsuit against Starbucks over alleged improper employment practices.
The AG’s office had accused the company of employment practices that violated the Florida Civil Rights Act of 1992 through race- and sex-based goals, quotas and preferences. The lawsuit originally was filed in December.
Uthmeier
“Every Floridian deserves to be hired, promoted, and compensated based on merit, qualifications and character – not race or sex,” Uthmeier said. “This resolution ensures that Starbucks’ policies and practices fully comply with Florida’s civil rights laws. DEI can never be an excuse to violate civil rights.
“We appreciate Starbucks’ cooperation in reaching this settlement.”
Under the agreement, Starbucks has committed that it will comply with the Florida Civil Rights Act. The Act prohibits race- and sex-based goals, quotas and preferences in hiring, promotion, pay, executive compensation, mentorship programs, supplier selection and board composition.
“We’re pleased to have resolved this matter without admission of wrongdoing and appreciate the constructive engagement of the Attorney General’s Office throughout this process,” said Pilar Ramos, executive vice president and chief legal officer of Starbucks. “We will continue to focus on offering great jobs and career opportunities to our partners who wear the green apron, while making a positive impact on the communities we serve in Florida and around the world.”
In addition, the company will not participate in any organizations that require increasing the racial diversity of its board of directors.
Uthmeier’s office said Starbucks’ chief legal officer will submit annual certifications of continued compliance for four years. Starbucks will also pay $1 million to the Florida Department of Legal Affairs to reimburse the office for time, expenses and costs in bringing the action. The agreement includes no admission of liability or wrongdoing by Starbucks.
The parties worked cooperatively to reach this voluntary resolution that advances equal opportunity and compliance with Florida’s civil rights laws.
