Are there protections for the physically and mentally handicapped?
Federal law (Americans with Disabilities Act, or ADA) makes it unlawful to discriminate against an otherwise qualified disabled person in a workplace. Workplace protection covers job application procedures, hiring, firing, advancement, compensation, training, recruitment, advertising, tenure, layoffs, leaves, fringe benefits, and so forth. There are some exceptions, such as when a persons disability prevents him or her from meeting reasonable qualifications for the job. This law applies to public sector employers, and private sector employers with more than 15 employees. Some states have laws that are more stringent, and, for example, cover employers with fewer employees. In addition to employment nondiscrimination protection, other activities covered under the ADA include public accommodations, transportation, state and local government services, and telecommunications.
