Common State-Level Disability Discrimination Laws

The Americans with Disabilities Act ensures that those persons with impairments, either physical or mental, are given a fair and just opportunity in all matters. The ADA is the major disability discrimination law with several manifestations on local and state level. The idea behind these laws is to prevent unfair treatment of the disabled by both individuals and institutions.

Who is Considered Disabled?

A disability is an impairment that severely impacts one’s day to day activities. These activities include obvious actions such as seeing and hearing but also extends to the ability to take care of oneself. The entire point of disability discrimination laws is to make sure that if you are in some way impaired you are able to seek employment, education, and a place to live. While The Americans with Disabilities Act is a federal law, many state governments have adopted the policy. Disabled persons are protected in several situations. For example, in situations involving employment and workplace matters, the laws against discrimination ensure that the applicant or employee receives reasonable accommodation unless making changes proves to be exceedingly difficult for the employer. When it comes to housing, the law provides that the person is not denied a lease or residence based solely on the disability.  Unfortunately, discrimination still occurs despite the laws.

Have I Been Discriminated Against?

Discrimination is one of the worst feelings anyone can experience. Being denied benefits, a job, or schooling based on the fact that you may not fit into the cookie-cutter mold of society can be humiliating and aggravating. Unfortunately, those with short term impairments or impairments that can be controlled and managed through medicinal means may not be considered disabled under the law. However, the nature of impairment is defined on a case by case basis, so if you feel that you have been discriminated against, you will want to go ahead and seek counsel.

Know When to Get an Attorney

If you suspect that you have been discriminated against due to the nature of your disability then you will want to seek legal counsel. There are several options open to you should you find the need to pursue the case legally. A good lawyer will be well versed in the laws on both the state and federal level and will be able to tell you if you have, in fact, been discriminated against, legally speaking. The lawyer will then be able to gather evidence on the discrimination along with whatever records are needed in order to prove the level of your disability.