Just because you have a disability does not mean you aren’t able to do the job as well as the next person. However, what if an employer does not agree?
Did you know there is a law to prevent an employer discriminating against you because of your disability? The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is designed to stop people from discriminating against you because you have a physical or mental disability. Employment is one of the areas it covers.
Does the ADA cover my line of work?
It does not matter what job you do. If you work for an employer that employs 15 or more people, the ADA applies.
What situations does the ADA cover?
The Americans with Disabilities Act protects you from employment discrimination when you apply for a job, as well as when you have a job. These are the situations it covers:
- Recruitment
- Hiring
- Pay
- Training
- Promotion
- Social activities
- Other privileges of employment
What if I need special accommodations to do the job?
You may need your employer to make certain adjustments so that you can do your job, or so it is easier for you to do your job. The ADA requires an employer to make “reasonable accommodations” for your disability providing these do not result in “undue hardship” for them.
Defining what is “reasonable,” what is “undue hardship,” or what counts as employment discrimination, can be difficult. An attorney with experience in employment law can help you decide if an employer is acting reasonably, or if they are discriminating against you because of your disability.
