My question involves labor and employment law for the state of: Pennsylvania.

I'm having a bit of trouble fully grasping my situation so if help can be provided it would be much appreciated. I'll try to keep it concise.

Facts of the situation:
  • I was terminated from my employment for "inappropriate internet use", which violated the Acceptable Use Policy. They refused to give me more details than that.

  • I am covered by an employment contract that states that “It is understood that counseling, warnings, or disciplinary actions issued to a [employee] prior to reaching 18 months of employment will be considered under the concept of progressive discipline.”

  • The only place that progressive discipline is expanded upon is the non-binding Employee Handbook.


Question/s:

Would I have grounds for a case that the immediate termination for my (alleged) infraction was a violation of the contract?

Based upon my research, they would be bound to following a progressive discipline policy and that only if they could show a level of severity and/or consistency in application could they have terminated my employment. Would I be correct in that thought process?

Thank you.