Home Depot Faces Class-Action Probe Over Georgia Layoffs, Alleged WARN Act Violations
Atlanta-based law firm Strauss Borrelli PLLC has launched an investigation into The Home Depot, Inc. following the company's announcement that it will lay off approximately 800 employees in the Atlanta area. The probe centers on whether the home improvement retail giant complied with the federal Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act, which mandates a 60-day advance notice for mass layoffs or plant closures.
The firm's move comes after Home Depot filed a WARN Act notice with Georgia state officials on January 28, indicating that the layoffs of 797 workers would begin taking effect on March 31. Strauss Borrelli stated it is examining whether employees were provided the full 60 calendar days' written notice required by law, or if the company instead owes them 60 days of severance pay and benefits for any shortfall.
"Based on the January 28 announcement date, the notice appears to have been filed just 62 days before the March 31 separation date," a legal analyst familiar with the case noted. "The WARN Act requires 60 calendar days' notice, not business days. This narrow margin, coupled with the scale of the layoff, is likely the focus of the investigation."
Home Depot has not yet publicly commented on the legal investigation. Channel 2 Action News has reached out to the company for a statement.
The layoffs arrive amid a period of strategic shifts for the retailer, which has been investing heavily in its supply chain and digital operations. Industry observers suggest the job cuts may reflect broader adjustments in corporate staffing following the pandemic-driven home improvement boom.
Reaction & Analysis:
Michael Torres, a retail analyst in Atlanta: "This is a significant workforce reduction in Home Depot's backyard. While restructuring is common, the legal scrutiny highlights how closely large employers must adhere to labor regulations, especially during sensitive transitions."
Janice Powell, a former HR manager and career counselor: "For the affected employees, the WARN Act is a critical safety net. It's not just about notice—it's about giving people time to seek new employment, file for benefits, and manage financial obligations. Any deviation can cause real hardship."
David Chen, a software engineer and local community advocate (sharper tone): "This is corporate callousness at its finest. Home Depot posts billions in profit, then cuts 800 jobs with what looks like a barely-legal notice period. They're treating people like disposable assets. If they violated the WARN Act, they should be held fully accountable—not just with severance, but with penalties."
Rebecca Hayes, a small business owner in Sandy Springs: "It's a troubling sign for the local economy. These are stable, corporate jobs leaving our community. I hope the investigation brings clarity and that Home Depot does right by these employees, who have contributed so much to the company's success."