Disability discrimination and reasonable accommodations

On Behalf of | Nov 3, 2014 | Disability Discrimination |

When individuals in Minnesota believe they were not hired based on a disability or feel that employers are treating them unfairly due to their disability, this might be a case of discrimination. Employees and applicants have civil rights regarding their treatment, and if they are discriminated against due to a disability, they might have a cause of action.

Disability discrimination is illegal in the state of Minnesota, and this form of discrimination could come in various forms. One form is not making reasonable accommodations in the workplace for those who have a disability. Whether it is a physical, sensory or mental impairment, employers are required to make reasonable accommodations for those employees with disabilities.

Reasonable accommodations could mean various things. In some cases, this could mean a redesign of the workspace so a blind or wheelchair-using employee could easily get around the workplace. Another is adjusting a work schedule to help those with mental disabilities. For those that are hard of hearing, having adjustments to equipment or training material could help, as well as providing sign language interpreters.

If an employer fails to reasonably accommodate the needs of employees who have disabilities, this could be considered discrimination, and those employees or applicants could file an action. This could result in a monetary award that compensates the individual for their losses and damages caused.

Being treated unfairly in the workplace is often a difficult position to be in. Employees should understand that options and legal remedies may be available. It is important to address the situation as soon as possible and speak with the appropriate people. Those unsure of the steps they should take in cases of employment discrimination should seek advice about their rights and options so they could take appropriate action.