What is the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)?

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a federal civil rights law passed in 1990 that prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities. The ADA applies to employers with 15 or more employees in Rhode Island and throughout the United States. It requires employers to make reasonable accommodations for employees with disabilities to help them perform their job duties. The ADA includes multiple requirements that employers must follow. It prohibits employers from discriminating against applicants or employees on the basis of disability. The law also requires employers to provide reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities, such as changing policies, providing special equipment or making modifications to the workplace. Additionally, employers are not allowed to ask job applicants questions about their disabilities or medical history. The ADA has helped improve the workplace experience for Rhode Islanders and millions of Americans with disabilities. It has enabled them to find employment, given them a voice in the workplace, and increased their access to resources like transportation and healthcare. The ADA has improved opportunities for people with disabilities, breaking down barriers that have long stood in their way.

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