Adopted on: May 4, 2011
Policy
Barnstable County does not discriminate based upon disability and provides reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities in a fair and equitable manner, and in accordance with applicable federal and state law.
This policy applies to employees of Barnstable County, applicants for employment, volunteers and users of services in Barnstable County.
Federal and State Regulations
The Rehabilitation Act of 1973 - Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act makes it illegal for any entity receiving federal financial assistance to discriminate on basis of disability. Section 504 obligates local governments to ensure that people with disabilities have equal access to any programs, services, or activities. Covered entities, such as local governments, are also required to ensure that employment practices do not discriminate based upon disability.
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) – requires that state and local governments provide qualified individuals with disabilities equal access to their programs, services, or activities unless doing so would fundamentally alter the nature of their programs, services, or activities or would impose an undue burden.
Massachusetts General Law c93 section 103 and Article CXIV of the Amendments to the Massachusetts Constitution – prohibits discrimination, exclusion from participation, and denial of benefits on the basis of disability in any program or activity in the Commonwealth.
