What is a reasonable accommodation?

A reasonable accommodation is a change in the way a business, school, or government agency provides goods, services, or activities to people with disabilities. For example, a reasonable accommodation for a student with dyslexia might be extra time on an exam or an audio version of notes. In Massachusetts, reasonable accommodation is outlined by state and federal disability law. The law requires employers and places of public accommodation to make reasonable modifications to their usual practices, policies, and procedures, as well as their physical environment, to ensure equal access for people with disabilities. State laws also require that employers and places of public accommodation make reasonable modifications to assist people with disabilities in the use of any goods, services, or activities provided. Examples of reasonable accommodation can include providing interpreters or sign language services for people who are deaf, ensuring wheelchair accessibility, providing Braille documents for people who are blind, offering audio-recorded materials, and providing modified equipment or devices. Reasonable accommodation also includes allowing service animals or emotional support animals in public places, and allowing people with disabilities to take time off for medical treatment or to attend doctor’s appointments.

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