If I have a disability, how might this affect my job search?

State and federal laws provide special protections for job applicants and employees with disabilities. These laws require employers to make “reasonable accommodations” that allow someone with a disability to apply for and work in a job just like anyone else.

And remember, physical disabilities are not the only disabilities that are recognized. California mployers are required to make “reasonable accommodations” for you if you have any of the following recognized disabilities: past drug addiction (NOT current drug use);[2053] alcoholism (past or present),[2054] or mental illness.

  1. 2053

    42 U.S.C. §§ 12114(a)-(b), 12210 (Americans with Disabilities Act); Cal. Gov’t Code § 12926; 2 Cal. Code Regs. § 7293.6. ↑

  2. 2054

    Crewe v. U.S. Office of Personnel Mgmt., 834 F. 2d 140 (8th Cir. 1987). ↑