DIABETES The Challenge of Employment Discrimination John W. Griffin, Jr. Marek, Griffin & Knaupp, Victoria, TX Chair, ADA Board of Directors Past Chair, ADA Legal Advocacy Subcommittee

DIABETES Discrimination in the Workplace GOALS: No one with diabetes is denied a job because that person has diabetes. Each person with diabetes is afforded the reasonable accommodations necessary to protect his or her health on the job.

DIABETES Blanket Bans & Diabetes

DIABETES Blanket Bans & Diabetes Court Security Officers Special Agents Foreign Service Officers

DIABETES Ending Blanket Bans

DIABETES You should be judged based on your qualifications, not your diabetes

DIABETES Can I do any job with my diabetes?

DIABETES Taking Care of Diabetes on the Job: Reasonable Accommodations Breaks to test blood glucose, take medication, and eat Ability to test low blood glucose whenever and wherever it occurs The ability to keep diabetes supplies and food nearby Leave for treatment, recuperation, or training on managing diabetes

DIABETES How do I get a reasonable accommodation? 1.Read your employee handbook – does it have any procedures you need to follow to request an accommodation? 2.Make a written request and be specific – explain exactly what accommodations you need and why they will help you do your job 3.Provide documentation from your doctor about your need for accommodations 4.Educate your employer about diabetes. Many employers are unfamiliar with diabetes and your needs on the job. 5.Negotiate the accommodations you need. Be willing to work with your employer to identify what will/will not work.

DIABETES Changing the Law Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act of 2008

DIABETES Where Can I Get Help? American Diabetes Association DIABETES You can speak with an ADA legal advocate who can help you with a work problem related to diabetes.