Americans with Disabilities Act and Employment

• Employers have many responsibilities under the ADA. Employers are prohibited from discriminating against qualified applicants because of their disabilities. When interviewing potential employees for hire, employers may not direct questions at the individual's disability and qualified applicants should be given the same consideration for jobs. In addition to hiring practices, the employer's responsibility extends to individuals already employed. Employers are also required to provide reasonable work accommodations for employees with disabilities as well as those who become temporarily disabled by offering temporary reassignment of duties.
  
  

Americans with Disabilities Act and Public Transportation

• Under the Americans with Disabilities Act, public transportation modes must be accessible by wheelchair-bound or disabled passengers. Buses, trains and other modes of public transportation are required to have designated seating areas for those in need. Transit agencies are also required to permit entry of service animals onboard to assist passengers. Airports and bus stations are obligated to offer assistance when required or requested.
  
  

Americans with Disabilities Act and Public Accommodations

• Public buildings are required to ensure entryways and restrooms are accessible by wheelchair and that public use items meet ADA guidelines. Many public buildings are equipped with automatic doors to provide assistance for wheelchair entry. These buildings should have wheelchair ramps installed as an alternative to steps. Public restrooms must have at least one stall with a wider entrance for wheelchair entry. Other public facilities, such as gas stations and grocery store counters, must offer some type of assistance for individuals requiring assistance.
  
  

Filing a Complaint

• Any individual who believes he or she has been discriminated against can file a complaint with the Disability Rights Section of the U.S. Department of Justice. Individuals may also contact this division by calling the toll-free helpline at 800-514-0301.
  
  

For More Information

• General information about the Americans with Disabilities Act and individual rights and recent amendments to the act are available online (see References). The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) ensures employees' rights are protected in these areas.