• Resource Guide Home
• Legislation and Policies
  • What Laws Might Apply?
  • Other Employment Laws
  • Roles & Responsibilities
  • Resources: Legislation
• Identification of Accommodations
  • Workplace Assessment
  • Types of Accommodations
  • Implementation
  • Resources: Programs
  • Resources: Funding
• Motor Impairments
  • Getting Around
  • Communicating
  • Reading or Writing
  • Managing Work and Time
  • Using a Computer
  • Working in the Lab or Field
  • Case Example
• Vision Impairments
  • Getting Around
  • Communicating
  • Reading or Writing
  • Managing Work and Time
  • Using a Computer
  • Working in the Lab or Field
  • Case Example
• Communication Difficulties
  • Getting Around
  • Communicating
  • Reading or Writing
  • Managing Work and Time
  • Using a Computer
  • Working in the Lab or Field
  • Case Example
• Cognitive Impairment
  • Getting Around
  • Communicating
  • Using a Computer
• Resources: Technical Assistance
• Research Findings

Module 1: Legislation and Policies

Other Relevant Employment Laws

Several other pieces of legislation or policy have implications in the workplace.

Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act

This law mandates that federal employees have access to and use of information and data that is comparable to the access of employees without disabilities. For example, federal agencies are required to procure and maintain accessible electronic and information technology (e.g., computer, software, copiers) and design websites and other information systems so they may be accessed with or without assistive technology. In addition to federal agencies, Section 508 applies to universities who receive federal funds.

For more information:

• Section 508 Homepage - http://www.section508.gov/
• U.S. Department of Justice - http://www.usdoj.gov/crt/508/508home.html

Family Medical Leave Act of 1993(FMLA)

This law is commonly referenced in the event of pregnancy, childbirth, or adoption within an employee’s household, but FMLA also applies to those seeking medical leave for themselves or an immediate family member due to a serious health condition. An eligible worker for a covered employer can request up to 12 work weeks of unpaid leave with 30 days advance notice.

For more information:

• US Department of Labor: FMLA - http://www.dol.gov/esa/whd/fmla/
• US Office of Personnel Management: FMLA - http://www.opm.gov/oca/leave/HTML/fmlafac2.asp

Workforce Investment Act of 1998 (WIA)

Creates one-stop centers that people, including people with disabilities, may turn to when looking for employment-related and training services. For example, a person can be referred to vocational rehabilitation services through these centers.

For more information:

• U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment & Training Association - http://www.doleta.gov/usworkforce/wia/act.cfm

New Freedom Initiative (NFI)

Announced by President George W. Bush in 2001, represents current disability policy and it is a comprehensive plan to promote the complete integration of disabled citizens. In terms of workplace accommodations, its biggest impact loan programs and tax benefits to help employees acquire equipment to work from home.

For more information:

• US Department of Health & Human Services: New Freedom Initiative - http://www.hhs.gov/newfreedom/
• The White House: New Freedom Initiative - http://www.whitehouse.gov/infocus/newfreedom/