United States law protects disabled people from discrimination in the workplace. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was passed in 1990 to put an end to disability discrimination in employment, public accommodations, state and local governments or transportation. Any person who is disabled is protected under the Act.
Under the law, disability is defined as any mental or physical condition that impairs a person’s ability to perform major life activity. The law does not specifically name different conditions that are protected, but any disease that prohibits someone from major life activity qualifies a disability.
Title 1 of the ADA deals with employment discrimination of disabled employees. It requires employers with more than 15 employees to provide equal opportunities to disabled employees. A disabled employee who is as equally qualified as others must have the same chance of promotions. It prohibits employers from asking questions regarding a person’s disability while conducting interviews. The Act also makes sure employers provide disabled employees with the conditions required to assist with their disabilities.
Filing a complaint under the ADA is a complicated process. You must file it with the United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). This has to be done within 180 days of the alleged discrimination by your employer. You can file a complaint at any EEOC office. You also have the right to take the matter to a federal court.
If you feel that your employer is discriminating against you because of your disability, it is your right to file a complaint with the EEOC. The procedure is complex, and you might require the help of an experienced attorney. The attorney will oversee your case and help you fight for your rights, and may be able to help you receive compensation.