Workplace Accommodations

Dayton attorney Matthew D. Stokely of the law firm Altick & Corwin recently gave a presentation on the 2008 amendments to the Americans with Disabilities Act, which will provide much more protection from disability discrimination in America's workplaces. Mr. Stokely noted that the more expansive language in the amended act will benefit workers with developmental disabilities, who filed very few charges of discrimination under the previous version of the law, and that many people are still uncertain as to the specifics of how to provide accommodations for such workers.

ASAN Southwest Ohio contacted Mr. Stokely to offer assistance in advising his employer clients on ways to provide accommodations for workers with developmental disabilities. In many instances, such a worker may need an adjustment to the workplace environment in order to be more productive and comfortable. For example, an autistic worker may be very productive in a quiet location with minimal distraction but is likely to have difficulty focusing in a busy office with a great deal of conversation and interruption. Accommodations for workers with developmental disabilities often are easy to implement, at little or no cost to the employer.

Mr. Stokely replied that he appreciated the email and would be happy to discuss such matters. In addition, he mentioned that he also represents individuals in employment discrimination matters. His contact information is listed below, for those who may be interested:

Matthew D. Stokely
Altick & Corwin Co., LPA
1700 One South Main St.
Dayton, OH 45402
937-223-1201
stokelym@altickcorwin.com


Edit: Here is a link (thanks to Dora at the Change.org autism blog) with useful suggestions for accommodation of autistic workers:
http://www.communityinclusion.org/article.php?article_id=266