Legal Question in Disability Law in Tennessee
Possible termination?
Is it possible to be fired or placed on disability retirement for going blind? I dont know the rules and what rights I have. The company I work for has gotten software for me to see the computer at work, but I am slower than others in my group in productivity. If I dont meet the minimum standards, they have cause. But it is due to my sight. Any insight you can offer would be helpful.
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: Possible termination?
It is illegal to terminate a worker who fits within the definition of disabled under the Americans with Disabilities Act ("ADA"). The ADA defines a qualified individual with a disability as an individual who, with or without a reasonable accommodation, can perform the essential functions of the position. In your situation, it will be important to know if there is some other accommodation which could be granted to help boost your productivity and if the threshhold productivity requirement is an essential function of your position.
From what you describe, it sounds as if the employer is working with you to accommodate your condition. You need to make sure that you are working in the right direction, however, with the accommodation you are requesting. You may want to spend sometime with an attorney experienced in labor and employment law to go over your situation.
If you would like more information about disability discrimination, you can visit my website, www.memphisemploymentlawyer.net.