Can a manager start an accommodation request without my input?

Law Discussions
1

I’m really upset about how my workplace handled my request for reasonable accommodations. My manager asked me to draft one, but then I was told to work with a new manager instead. Now, my previous manager emails me saying they already reached out to HR and a third party about my request—without asking me first or even informing me. I feel like this violates my rights under the ADA. Has anyone else dealt with something like this?

2

That sounds like a mess. They’re supposed to involve you directly in the process. Did they give you any reason for doing this?

3

Ali said:
That sounds like a mess. They’re supposed to involve you directly in the process. Did they give you any reason for doing this?

Exactly. The ADA process requires collaboration between the employer and employee. This doesn’t sound like they followed that.

4

@Teo
No, they didn’t explain anything. It feels like they completely left me out of the loop.

5

Have you started keeping records? Emails and notes about what happened could be useful if you file a complaint.

6

Mori said:
Have you started keeping records? Emails and notes about what happened could be useful if you file a complaint.

I’ve saved some emails, but I’ll start keeping more detailed notes. Should I go back to HR with this?

7

@Mackenzie
Yes, definitely. HR should address this, but if they don’t, the EEOC might be the next step.

8

What’s ADA? I keep hearing about it, but I’m not sure what it covers.

9

Jess said:
What’s ADA? I keep hearing about it, but I’m not sure what it covers.

ADA stands for the Americans with Disabilities Act. It protects workers with disabilities and ensures they get fair accommodations.

10

It’s strange that your manager took action without involving you. Did they say why they didn’t wait for your input?

11

Zenith said:
It’s strange that your manager took action without involving you. Did they say why they didn’t wait for your input?

Yeah, that’s not how it’s supposed to work. They should’ve asked for your consent before reaching out to HR.

12

FYI, filing a formal complaint with the EEOC can help if your rights under the ADA were ignored.

13

Corey said:
FYI, filing a formal complaint with the EEOC can help if your rights under the ADA were ignored.

Thanks for the advice. I’m also planning to involve my union to see if they can help.