It requires executive branch agencies to take affirmative action in the hiring, placing, and advancing of individuals with disabilities. Section 504 prohibits recipients of federal financial assistance from discriminating against qualified individuals with disabilities in employment and in their programs and activities. Veterans with disabilities and veterans of the Vietnam era are protected further by Section 402 of the Vietnam Veterans Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974. Individuals with disabilities also may be protected by their state anti-discrimination laws, some of which are more stringent than the federal laws. To learn more about rights under state laws, contact the State Human Rights Commission or its equivalent.
Most states also have a commission, council, or committee that addresses disability issues.
Attempt to resolve the problem at the lowest level possible. Current employees should discuss the situation with their own supervisors and with upper level management, if necessary. Determine whether the employer has a policy for resolving such conflicts internally. Section 513 of the ADA encourages the use of ADR, naming settlement negotiations, conciliation, facilitation, mediation, fact-finding, materials, and arbitration as examples. Participation in an employer internal ADR or other conflict resolution procedure may or may not suspend the regulatory time limits for initiating administrative or court actions.