Employment

• Employers with 15 or more employees must comply with ADA regulations. The employer must make reasonable accommodations for the qualified disabled applicant or employee, providing no hardship is encountered in doing so. The employer must not discriminate against an employee or applicant because he associates with a person classified as disabled. Drug testing is not affected by ADA. Employers may fire disabled employees who pose a direct threat to the safety or health of coworkers. The EEOC accepts complaints concerning violations of ADA tenets with respect to employment.
  
  

Public Accommodations

• Public accommodations including restaurants, hotels, theaters, doctors' offices, pharmacies, retail stores, museums, libraries, parks, private schools and day care centers may not discriminate because of a disability. When alterations are made to a structure, the new construction must comply with ADA specifications. Discrimination by public entities against the disabled or their associates is also prohibited. If a hotel offers transportation services, it must provide equivalent services to a disabled guest. Even though individuals may bring lawsuits as a result of noncompliance with ADA rules, money damages cannot be awarded. However, an individual may file a complaint with the U.S. attorney general who can file a lawsuit to stop the discrimination. The attorney general may ask for monetary damages and pursue other penalties.
  
  

Transportation

• Public bus and rail systems must provide access to people with disabilities, with rail systems supplying handicapped access to at least one car on a train. All rail or bus stations must establish accessibility for all disabled persons, including unimpeded access to bathrooms, drinking fountains and telephones. Direct complaints concerning noncompliance to the U.S. Department of Transportation.
  
  

Government Operations

• State and local governments are prohibited from discriminating against qualified people who have disabilities. All facilities and services must make appropriate provisions for disabled people. Those who experience a hardship because of a violation may relay the complaint to a federal agency designated by the U.S. attorney general. Private lawsuits are also a viable source of retaliation.
  
  

Telecommunications Relay Services

• If a telecommunications company offers telephone service to the masses, it must make telephone relay services available to those who employ the use of telecommunications devices for the deaf or devices of a similar nature. File noncompliance complaints with the Federal Communications Commission.