According to United States law, employers are prohibited from discriminating against their employees because of religion, sex, race and disability. Discrimination due to disability has been very common, but several steps have been taken by the federal government to make sure it is stopped. The unfair treatment of an employee because of their disability is unlawful. Employers may not hire, fire or make any other decisions based on the employee’s disability.
One of the most important laws regarding disability at the workplace is the ‘American with Disabilities Act (ADA). The ADA makes sure employers do not discriminate, and provide equal opportunities to disabled employees. If an individual’s disability has no bearing on the quality of their work, then it cannot be used in making any decisions regarding that employee. The law also requires all employers to inform all disabled employees about their rights and put up notices to ensure they understand those rights.
Employers must accommodate disabled employees and provide them with any requirements that they need to perform their tasks. Longer medical leaves are also part of the package for disabled employees. Only those individuals who are considered to be disabled are eligible for such benefits. The legal definition of a disabled person is someone whose life is greatly affected by mental or physical impairment. Although drug addicts are generally not protected by the ADA, recovering alcoholics might get some concession depending on the circumstances.
Employees who feel that they are being discriminated against because of their condition have the right to file a complaint. An experienced employment attorney can go through their case and assist them in the process.