On Tuesday, May 7, 2019, the United States Conference of Mayors (USCM) and United States Mayor Enterprises (USME) secured a significant victory in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the DC Circuit. The DC Circuit upheld the $8 million jury verdict previously won in a high-profile federal jury trial in January 2018.
In 2012, Great-West Life & Annuity Insurance Company contracted with USCM and USME to administer a national program offering a retirement plan to municipal employees. In 2016, USCM sued the retirement services company for breach of contract and breach of the implied covenant of good faith and fair dealing.
Following a two-week trial, a jury found in favor of USCM and USME on all counts. Great-West appealed. On May 7, 2019, the DC Circuit affirmed the district court’s judgment in full, upholding the verdict.
“We are extremely gratified by this decision and the affirmation by the jury and the courts of the merit of the Mayors’ position throughout these proceedings,” said Tom Cochran, USCM CEO and Executive Director. “We are grateful for the steadfast leadership of our President, Columbia (SC) Mayor Steve Benjamin as well as the support of our Board of Trustees. The court’s decision strengthens our commitment to the health and financial well-being of municipal employees nationwide as we continue to fight for cities, their residents and their workers.”
