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 definition includes a wide range of impairments, including, but not limited to, mental or psychological disorders, learning disabilities, physical disabilities, hearing impairments, vision impairments, mobility impairments, chronic illnesses, and cognitive impairments. All of these impairments are defined as disabilities under the ADA, and they entitle individuals with disabilities to accommodations and protections defined by state and federal laws. In Texas, the definition of disability under the ADA is broadly interpreted. This includes any mental or physical impairment that significantly impacts a major life activity such as walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing, learning, caring for oneself or working. It is important to note that an individual does not actually have to be limited in the performance of a major life activity in order to be considered disabled under the ADA. As long as the impairment would substantially limit a major life activity if an individual had the impairment, he or she is considered to be disabled. The ADA also requires employers to provide reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities to ensure that they can have the same opportunity to participate in their job as their non-disabled peers. These accommodations could include anything from modified workstations and specialized equipment to providing extra time for certain tasks. The ADA also requires employers to make sure that their policies and procedures do not place an undue burden or hardship on individuals with disabilities.

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