Food delivery favorite forced to fork over millions after DOJ alleged discrimination against American workers

What happened: Instacart, operated by Maplebear Inc., reached a $5 million settlement with the DOJ over allegations it discriminated against U.S. workers based on country of origin in the PERM process. Key numbers: $5 million total settlement; $4 million compensation fund; $1 million civil penalties; alleged conduct from December 2023 through February 2026; fifteenth Why it matters: The DOJ and EEOC said the settlement holds employers accountable for preferring temporary visa holders and is part of the "Project Firewall" effort. Instacart said its practices complied with applicable laws.

Instacart, operated by Maplebear Inc., reached a $5 million settlement with the DOJ over allegations it discriminated against U.S. workers based on country of origin in the PERM process.

The DOJ and EEOC said the settlement holds employers accountable for preferring temporary visa holders and is part of the "Project Firewall" effort. Instacart said its practices complied with applicable laws.