Is it illegal for employers to discriminate against employees who have disabilities?

Yes, it is illegal for employers to discriminate against employees who have disabilities in California. This is protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and California’s Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA). These federal and state laws protect individuals from being discriminated against in the workplace based on their disability. Under the ADA and FEHA, an employer is prohibited from taking any sort of action against an employee on the basis of their disability. This means they cannot use it as a basis for firing, demotion, or any other type of discrimination. Additionally, employers are required to provide reasonable accommodations to their employees with disabilities in order to ensure they can equally participate in the workplace. It is also illegal for an employer to deny employment to an individual simply because they have a disability. They cannot ask potential employees questions about their disability, and they cannot use it as a factor in the hiring process. Employers who are found to be discriminating against an employee due to their disability can face serious consequences. This may include penalties, corrective action, and even a loss of their business licenses. In addition, an employee has the right to file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH).

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