The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) ensures fair treatment for workers with disabilities. It prevents discrimination and requires employers to provide reasonable accommodations. If you have a disability, you have rights that protect you in hiring, employment, and workplace conditions.
Protection against workplace discrimination
The ADA makes it illegal for employers to treat you unfairly because of a disability. This applies to hiring, promotions, pay, job assignments, and firing. Employers cannot refuse to hire you solely based on your disability if you are qualified for the job. They also cannot retaliate against you for asserting your rights under the ADA.
Reasonable accommodations for employees
Employers must provide reasonable accommodations to help you perform your job. This could include flexible work schedules, assistive technology, modified equipment, or changes to workplace policies. You must inform your employer about your need for accommodations, but they cannot ask intrusive medical questions. Employers can only deny an accommodation if it causes significant difficulty or expense.
Accessibility and workplace modifications
The ADA requires workplaces to be accessible. This includes physical access, such as ramps and elevators, and digital access, like screen-reader-compatible software. Employers must ensure that workspaces, restrooms, and common areas are usable by employees with disabilities.
Protection against harassment and retaliation
Harassment based on a disability is illegal under the ADA. If you experience offensive remarks, exclusion, or other unfair treatment, you have the right to report it without fear of punishment. Employers cannot demote, fire, or discipline you for filing a complaint or requesting accommodations.
Knowing and asserting your rights
Understanding your rights under the ADA helps you advocate for fair treatment. If you believe your employer has violated the law, you can file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or a similar state agency.
