What is an interactive process?

The interactive process is a conversation between a person with a disability and an employer or school that is required by law. This process is designed to ensure that a person with a disability receives reasonable accommodations that will allow them to work, attend school, or engage in other activities. In New Mexico, the interactive process is part of disability law under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The interactive process begins with the person with a disability making a request for an accommodation with their employer or school. This request must be in writing and provide enough detail about the disability and the accommodations needed to properly assess the situation. After the request is made, the employer or school has an obligation to consider it in good faith. The employer or school may then ask the person with the disability for additional information or to provide medical documentation to help them understand the disability and what accommodations are needed. Once all the information has been gathered, the employer or school must then work with the person with a disability to identify any reasonable accommodations that will allow them to work or attend school. Ultimately, the interactive process is designed to ensure that employers and schools are accommodating the needs of individuals with disabilities. It is a necessary step in order for the person with a disability to access the same opportunities as their peers without disabilities.

Related FAQs

Can employers terminate an employee due to a disability?
Are businesses required to make reasonable modifications to their facilities to accommodate disabled customers?
What are the types of disabilities recognized by the ADA?
What is the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act of 2008?
What are my rights as a disabled employee?
Are any special rules for disabled students in public schools?
What is the difference between an accommodation request and an accommodation plan?
Are there restrictions on how employers can use a person’s disability in the hiring process?
Are there any special requirements for disabled people when buying or renting a home?
What is the process for filing a disability discrimination complaint?

Related Blog Posts

What Everyone Must Know About Disability Law - July 31, 2023
Defending Your Rights as a Disabled Person: A Guide to Disability Law - August 7, 2023
Understanding the Different Types of Disability Law - August 14, 2023
How to Seek Legal Representation for Disability-Related Issues - August 21, 2023
The Pros and Cons of Appealing a Disability Denial - August 28, 2023