An Oregon dentist has asked an appeals court to review a $348,000 penalty stemming from allegations that he required employees to attend a Scientology-related training session.
State labor officials imposed the fine in September to settle charges of religious discrimination against Andrew Engel, DMD, who operates AWE Dental Spa in Bend, according to a story on Oregonlive.com. Susan Muhleman, Dr. Engel's former dental assistant, quit after she was allegedly ordered to attend a three-day Scientology-affiliated symposium or be fired.
In 2009, Dr. Engel gave employees a conference outline referencing a Scientology concept known as the "tone scale." Muhleman told Dr. Engel that it would conflict with her Christian beliefs, but Dr. Engel told her the conference was mandatory and rejected her request for secular training instead, according to the ruling.
Muhleman quit before the conference, then moved out of the state to pursue a new job. Dr. Engel was ordered to cover Muhleman's lost wages and moving expenses, as well as damages for emotional distress.
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