ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act)

Federal law prohibiting discrimination against individuals with disabilities, including rules governing medical examinations and inquiries in employment.

Key Facts

  • Pre-offer: no medical exams or disability questions allowed
  • Post-offer: exams allowed if required for all incoming employees
  • Current employees: exams must be job-related and business necessary
  • Drug testing is not considered a "medical examination" under ADA

The ADA (Title I) restricts when and how employers can require medical examinations. Pre-offer: no medical exams or disability-related questions allowed. Post-offer/pre-employment: medical exams are permitted if required of all entering employees in that job category. Current employees: medical exams must be job-related and consistent with business necessity. The ADA also requires reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities unless it causes undue hardship. Drug testing is generally not considered a "medical examination" under the ADA, and current illegal drug use is not a protected disability.

50

States Covered

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