Actions That Could Increase Work Participation For Adults With Disabilities

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) calls for the full participation of individuals with disabilities in society, including the workforce. Yet, many barriers exist that may prevent them from staying connected or returning to employment. For instance, eligibility requirements for receiving public disability benefits or health coverage are not always consistent with helping to keep individuals at work or facilitating their return. Also, employers may not know how to accommodate employees with disabilities or may lack financial incentives to do so. This report presents policy options and actions that could be taken to help adults with a current or past work history improve their participation in the workforce. Charts and tables.