What Constitutes a Disability Under the Americans with Disabilities Act?

Question from ydyd, What Constitutes a Disability Under the Americans with Disabilities Act?

Answer from AI:

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a federal law in the United States that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including jobs, schools, transportation, and all public and private places that are open to the general public. The purpose of the law is to ensure that people with disabilities have the same rights and opportunities as everyone else.

Definition of Disability Under the ADA

Under the ADA, a person has a disability if they have a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, a record of such an impairment, or is regarded as having such an impairment. Major life activities include, but are not limited to, caring for oneself, performing manual tasks, seeing, hearing, eating, sleeping, walking, standing, lifting, bending, speaking, breathing, learning, reading, concentrating, thinking, communicating, and working.

Specific Conditions

In the context of the given options:

A. Cancer – Yes, cancer is generally considered a disability under the ADA because it can substantially limit one or more major life activities.

B. Diabetes – Yes, diabetes is generally considered a disability under the ADA because it can substantially limit one or more major life activities.

C. Stressful family life – No, a stressful family life is not considered a disability under the ADA. The ADA covers physical or mental impairments, and while stress can be related to mental health, a stressful family life in itself is not a recognized disability.

Therefore, D. A and B are both correct answers.

Legal Advice

While this information provides a general understanding, the application of the ADA can be complex and depends on specific circumstances. If you believe you have been discriminated against due to a disability, it is recommended to consult with a legal professional for personalized advice.

For more information, you can visit the ADA’s official website or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission’s page on the ADA Amendments Act of 2008.