Terminated because fired from a prior employer, before merger?

[reeltrouble]

I know Florida is an at will state. However, I was fired by Company A in 2004. The termination was for "violation of company policy", and I was ineligible for re-hire with Company A. There was no malfeasance, or true wrong doing. I was fired for sending/receiving personal emails at work (not offensive or inappropriate, just not work related) and using the internet at work to view web pages that were not work related. I did not pursue this legally, since I felt had no reason to do so, due to being in an at will work state.

Fast forward to 2008. I now work for company B, and was hired by them in 9/2008. Company A bought Company B, the sale is to be completed by the end of the year. Last week, I received a firm offer for a promotion and relocation, within company B. I have an email from the recruiter confirming that it was a firm offer of employment. My background check was completed in September, before I was hired by Company B, and I never withheld any information. I booked plane tickets, movers, etc, in order to relocate on short notice. I was notified today, that because I was ineligible for re-hire with Company A, not only would I not get the promotion, but I was immediately terminated.

Is this legal? I know its not right, but is there legal grounds for me being fired by a company I dont presently work for?

 

[cbg]

They do not need "legal grounds" to fire you. You can be fired for any reason that does not specifically violate the law. This does not.

It's a shame, but it's not illegal.