Mental Impairments and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973
34 Pages Posted: 17 Feb 2012
Date Written: October 1, 2011
Abstract
This article examines the question of whether an asserted mental disorder should be regarded as a statutory impairment. The article begins by outlining the Rehabilitation Act and by discussing the diagnostic difficulties that exist in the mental health field. It then surveys specific cases arising under the Rehabilitation Act. Selected cases reviewing state statutory language are also examined. The article provides a broad discussion of the questions and concerns that must be considered when formulating a nondiscrimination policy protecting mentally impaired persons. It concludes by suggesting an approach for handling cases alleging discrimination due to a mental impairment.
Keywords: Rehabilitation Act of 1973, handicap, disability, mental impairments, physical impairments, employment discrimination
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