TMO · News · 20260806N

Litigation and Legal Risk

THERMO FISHER SCIENTIFIC INC. · 2026-08-06 · Importance 31 · Surprise 42

A Thermo Fisher statistical science director filed a lawsuit alleging that the company violated his religious rights by refusing to provide a fossil-fuel-free 401(k) investment option. The plaintiff’s claim is based on Christian environmental-stewardship beliefs and argues that investing in fossil-fuel companies is immoral. The case could test employer accommodation obligations following the U.S. Supreme Court’s 2023 Groff v. DeJoy decision and its substantial-cost standard.

Key facts

• A scientist in New York is suing Thermo Fisher for refusing his request for a fossil fuel-free 401(k) plan on religious grounds. source