All too often, employees who live with disabilities struggle with informing their employer and advocating for their protected rights, like protection against discrimination in employment. Learning more about the law and how it protects those with disabilities can be the first step in creating and sustaining a financially rewarding life.
The American Disabilities Act
The American Disabilities Act (ADA), passed in 1990, offers legal protection for employees who live with disabilities. Disabilities can take many forms, including those that are physical or mental. The law requires that most employers, including state and local governments, private employers, and non-profit organizations adhere to the law. The government agencies administering the law are the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and the Department of Justice (DOJ).
Reasonable accommodations and protecting employees’ rights
The ADA asserts that an employee living with a disability may have a reasonable accommodation or a minor adjustment made to their work, such as their schedule or tools to assist them in their duties. The key to this is that the adjustments should be manageable for the employer while ensuring the employee can adequately complete their work requirements.
If needed, employees may request a reasonable accommodation, which is a crucial step in protecting their rights and assists them with living up to their potential in the workplace. However, discrimination at work is a common occurrence. And knowing more about the laws that offer protection can prove invaluable.
The ADA offers some of the best legal protection to employees living with disabilities. Using the protections provided within the law can help employees live fuller lives.