The ADA and Disability Accommodations

Abstract

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was designed to promote equal employment opportunities for handicapped individuals in the workplace. The law mandates that employers reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities who are qualified to perform the job. However, employers are exempted from this requirement if the reasonable accommodation results in an undue hardship for the organization. The legal definitions of reasonable accommodation and undue hardship have evolved over time due to case law resulting from judicial decisions. This paper will review recent decisions by the U.S. Supreme Court and their effect on employer responsibilities under the ADA. Suggestions will be provided as to policies organizations could follow to respond to these requirements.