What is the definition of disability under the ADA?
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) defines disability as a “physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities.” This includes any physiological disorder, condition, or defect, such as a mental or physical illness, that affects the normal functioning of a person’s body, mind, or emotions. This definition also includes a specific list of conditions that are automatically considered to be disabilities. These include hearing impairments, sight impairments, learning disabilities, and psychological disabilities. In North Carolina, the ADA applies to any employer who has at least 15 employees and to any business or other organization that receives public services or funds from the state or federal government. Under the ADA, employers are prohibited from discriminating against any qualified individual with a disability. Employers can only reject an individual for a job if their disability makes them unable to perform the job. The ADA also requires employers to provide reasonable accommodations to applicants and employees with disabilities. This includes making changes to the work environment or the tools and equipment used in the job.
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