As an employee with a disability, you have legal protections under the Americans with Disabilities Act that require your employer to provide reasonable accommodations to enable you to perform your job duties. However, in some cases, employers may refuse to make necessary accommodations, which can create significant challenges for individuals with disabilities.
If you find yourself in a situation where your Texas employer is refusing to make accommodations for your disability, it is important to understand your rights and potential courses of action.
Your rights under the ADA
The ADA prohibits employers from discriminating against qualified individuals with disabilities and requires them to provide reasonable accommodations unless doing so would cause an undue hardship. Reasonable accommodations are modifications or adjustments that enable employees with disabilities to perform the essential functions of their job. These may include changes to work schedules, equipment, policies or the work environment.
What to do if your employer refuses to make accommodations
Start by communicating with your employer about your disability and the specific accommodations you need. Provide documentation from a healthcare professional that supports your request. Engage in an open and honest conversation, explaining how the requested accommodations would enable you to perform your job effectively.
Keep detailed records of all communication and interactions related to your accommodation request. Note the date, time, individuals involved and the content of the conversation. If your initial discussion with your employer does not yield results, reach out to your company’s human resources department.
Present your case and provide any supporting documentation. HR may help facilitate a resolution or guide you through the company’s accommodation request process.
Potential legal remedies
If your employer persists in refusing to make accommodations for your disability, you may consider taking legal action. Under the ADA, you can file a complaint with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission or pursue a lawsuit against your employer for disability discrimination.
If your Texas employer is refusing to make accommodations for your disability, you can advocate for the accommodations you need to perform your job effectively.
