EEOC charges of discrimination based on mental health conditions are on the rise

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The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (“EEOC”) recently reported that during fiscal year 2016, preliminary data shows that EEOC resolved almost 5,000 charges of discrimination based on mental health conditions.  This recent data shows that the EEOC obtained approximately $20 million from employers for discrimination based on mental health conditions.  The type of discrimination most common was unlawfully denying those with mental health conditions employment and reasonable accommodations.

The EEOC wants employers to know that mental health conditions are no different than physical health conditions under the law.  The EEOC reported that in relation to veterans who have returned home with service-connected disabilities, there appears to be a need to raise awareness about these issues.

As a way of raising such awareness, on December 12, 2016 the EEOC issued a resource document that explains workplace rights for individuals with mental health conditions under the Americans With Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA).  The document is called: Depression, PTSD, & Other Mental Health Conditions in the Workplace: Your Legal Rights and is available for free online at this link.

Florida Employers are reminded to call the Law Office of David Miklas, P.A. if they have any questions about accommodating mental health conditions.  You reach reach us by email or call us at 1-772-465-5111.

You can read more of our employment law articles on our legal updates page.

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Law Office of David Miklas, P.A.

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