Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): Employment Guide

Overview

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 is landmark civil rights legislation that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including employment.

Who Is Covered?

Employers

• Private employers with 15 or more employees
• State and local governments
• Employment agencies
• Labor organizations

Employees

The ADA protects qualified individuals with disabilities who can perform the essential functions of a job with or without reasonable accommodation.

Key Employment Provisions

1. Non-Discrimination

Employers cannot discriminate in:

• Recruitment and hiring
• Promotions and advancement
• Training opportunities
• Compensation and benefits
• Termination

2. Reasonable Accommodations

Employers must provide reasonable accommodations unless it causes undue hardship. Examples include:

• Modified work schedules
• Accessible workspaces
• Assistive technology
• Job restructuring