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JAMES ROBINSON Plaintiff
vs.
DONNA E. SHALALA Ph.D. Secretary of Health and Human Services Defendant.
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Issues:
Drugs, due process, evidence.
Case Summary:
James Robinson petitions the court for a review of an administrative judge's ruling that denies him supplemental disability insurance benefits. Robinson injured in a knee and a hand in separate, work-related accidents. He applied for supplemental disability benefits, claiming his injuries prevented him from working and that he had a substance abuse problem. Federal officials challenged his application and the issue was submitted to an administrative law judge.
Decision of lower jurisdiction:
An administrative law judge rejected Robinson's claim for additional benefits. The judge noted that Robinson's injuries did not prevent him for securing employment and that his substance abuse was voluntary. An appeals board affirmed the judge's ruling. Robinson now seeks a review of the ruling.
Outcome:
Robinson loses. The U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California granted defendant's motion for summary judgment. The court noted that Robinson failed to prove his substance abuse was a disability.