Despite laws that work to protect individuals with disabilities from discrimination in Washington, D.C. and elsewhere, the worry almost always exists that an employer or prospective employer will treat a disabled worker unfairly. A person may feel qualified for a position and may only need reasonable accommodation in order to perform the job duties as needed. Still, far too many people are denied workplace assistance or jobs entirely due to violations of the law.
When a person applies for a position, employers cannot ask questions about a disability or base their hiring decision on whether a person is able-bodied. If this happens, the job candidate could argue that the employer violated the law by asking improper questions during an interview. Additionally, if a person is hired but an employer refuses to provide reasonable accommodations, a violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act or the state and local anti-discrimination laws may also have occurred.
It is important to keep in mind that not all accommodation requests fall into the category of being reasonable. However, some adjustments that are typical include the following:
- Restructuring the nonessential duties of a position to accommodate a worker
- Offering a more flexible schedule and leave policy for individuals who receive medical care or who need more breaks
- Purchasing or modifying equipment to help the worker perform necessary duties more easily
Feeling discounted or discriminated against simply because one has a disability can be more than disheartening. As a result, if Washington, D.C. metro area workers believe that they have been mistreated or denied reasonable accommodation by their employer, it may be worthwhile to consider their legal options. Addressing the matter may help them receive the extra assistance they need as well as hold their employer accountable for unjust actions.
