Arbitrator will decide Hooters weight cases

MOUNT CLEMENS (AP) -- A dispute involving Hooters and the weight of two former Detroit-area waitresses will be settled outside of court. A Macomb County judge recently dismissed lawsuits by Cassie Smith and Leanne Convery, clearing the way for all parties to go to private arbitration. Smith and Convery claim they were fired or force to quit because Hooters believed they were too heavy. They worked at the restaurant chain's Roseville location. Hooters denies the allegation. The chain is known for having female waitresses in tight-fitting clothes. Michigan law prohibits discrimination based on weight. Hooters attorney Rob Huth tells The Macomb Daily that arbitration will greatly reduce legal costs and lead to a quick decision. Published: Tue, Jun 21, 2011