Passed in 1990, the American with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a federal law that protects the rights of workers with disabilities. Some employers continue to treat disabled persons differently and worse than non-disabled workers. You have rights, and you should not be afraid to use the legal system to ensure your rights are protected.
The law also specifies a number of protections, making the following illegal:
- Termination because of disability
- Not hiring someone because they are disabled or appear to be disabled
- Not providing an employee reasonable accommodations to perform the essential functions of the job
- Harassment or abusive language
- Workplaces that are not physically accessible to workers and/or the public
In addition to protections under the Americans with Disabilities Act workers are entitled to medical leave. The Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) and California Family Rights Act (CFRA) legally require employers to provide eligible employees up to twelve weeks of leave in a year. Employees also may be able to request a reasonable accommodation for their disability of time from work, under federal and California law. Law Offices of Wendy Musell can discuss with you whether you are eligible for medical leave and make sure your rights are protected.