by Gregory Williams, Esq. | Under Washington State Human Rights Commission (WSHRC) Employment–Handicapped Persons Regulations, what are the rules concerning reasonable accommodation? Here’s my point of view (NOTE: please read our DISCLAIMER before proceeding).
THE STATUTORY AUTHORITY (RCW)
RCW 49.60.120(3) is the statutory authority enabling the WSHRC to adopt rules concerning reasonable accommodation. See WAC 162-22-065, WA State Legislature Website (bottom of page body). The statute declares that the WSHRC has “the function[], power[], and dut[y] … [t]o adopt, amend, and rescind suitable rules to carry out the provisions of this chapter, and the policies and practices of the commission in connection therewith.” RCW 49.60.120(3) (hyperlinks added).
REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION
WAC 162-22-065 is the relevant regulation, and it addresses reasonable accommodation as follows:
(1) Reasonable accommodation means measures that:
(a) Enable equal opportunity in the application process;
(b) Enable the proper performance of the particular job held or desired;
(c) Enable the enjoyment of equal benefits, privileges, or terms and conditions of employment.
(2) Possible examples of reasonable accommodation may include, but are not limited to:
(a) Adjustments in job duties, work schedules, or scope of work;
(b) Changes in the job setting or conditions of work;
(c) Informing the employee of vacant positions and considering the employee for those positions for which the employee is qualified.
WAC 162-22-065 (emphasis added) (hyperlinks added).
LEARN MORE
If you would like to learn more, then consider contacting an experienced Washington State Employment Discrimination Attorney as soon as possible to discuss your case. Please note: the information contained in this article is not offered as legal advice and will not form an attorney-client relationship with Law Office of Gregory A. Williams, P.S., Inc.; Williams Law Group, PS; or the author of this article. Please see our DISCLAIMER.
–gw
