The case of the PPP interview
Ethics
Charles Selcer, CPA, MBA | November 2021 Footnote
Editor's note: Updated October 29, 2021
Lacy Doyly, CPA is the CFO at Pungent Patchouli Products, Inc. The assistant controller resigned and Lacy interviewed possible candidates.
During an interview, Lacy told one candidate, Ralph Malf, that she would only hire a woman, as women might better understand patchouli oil products. Ralph sued the company and Lacy for gender discrimination and was awarded damages that were upheld on all appeals.
Q: Has Lacy committed an act discreditable under the CPA Code of Conduct?
A. Yes. At 2.400.010, it is presumed to be an act discreditable when a court rules that a member has violated anti-discrimination laws.
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