According to the New York Human Rights Law, an employee cannot be discriminated against for a physical or mental disability, and employers have a duty to provide reasonable accommodations to employees with disabilities whenever possible. That said, what is considered a reasonable accommodation can vary depending on the situation. If you believe you are entitled to an accommodation that your employer is not providing, or if you are facing a medical separation because of a disability, an employment attorney can help you understand your rights and take legal action to secure them.

Who Can Request Reasonable Accommodations in New York?

As long as you are qualified for the position you hold or hope to obtain, and you are capable of performing the essential job responsibilities, you have the right to request reasonable accommodations for a disability so that you can complete your work tasks.

In this context, New York law defines a disability as any physical, mental, or medical impairment that affects bodily functions or can be demonstrated by accepted medical techniques. This can include both temporary and permanent conditions, and it may include alcohol or drug addiction if you are in recovery and not currently using illegal drugs. Since 2016, pregnancy-related conditions can also be a justification for reasonable accommodations.

The New York Civil Service offers its employees plenty of benefits. However, that does not mean that the Civil Service code is without its restrictions. New York Civil Service law penalizes employees for striking. If you are subject to penalties or disciplinary proceedings as a civil service employee in New York, it is imperative that you seek the advice of an experienced civil service job defense attorney in your area.

The Taylor Law

New York Civil Service Law dictates the treatment of strikes as follows: “Strikes by public employees against the State or any public authority or local governmental jurisdiction, including a school district, are prohibited by Article 14 of the Civil Service Law, also known as the Taylor Law.”

New York Civil Service laws give those in public positions additional job securities that workers in the private sector do not have. Still, it is essential to understand those limits to understand your rights as a public employee. Knowing how the Civil Service Laws can protect you in the event of a severe physical or mental injury can help you retain your job while you take the time that you need to recover. If you ever run into legal trouble regarding your public position, save yourself the stress by working with an experienced civil service job defense lawyer who will help protect your best interests.

New York Civil Service Law and Medical Separation

Medical Separation/Termination for medical reasons is different from being fired for misconduct. If an employee cannot perform his or her full duties for a year or more because of a temporary disability that occurred on or off the job, the employer can remove the employee or medically separate the employee from his or her position. Sections 71, 72, and 73 of the New York Civil Service Law explain when and how a civil service employee may be medically separated.

Over the last few years, marijuana laws have been changing drastically around the country. In most states, marijuana laws apply to specific situations, and it is not entirely legalized. However, new rules regarding drug tests took effect this year in New York City. When applying for a new job, it is important to know your rights so that you are not wrongfully banned from positions for which you are qualified. If you think that a potential employer has violated the new marijuana testing laws, it is crucial that you speak to an experienced civil service job defense attorney to protect your rights.

NYC Marijuana Tests

As of May 10, 2020, most New York City employers are not allowed to test job applicants for marijuana or THC. However, this rule only applies to prospective employees. If an employer suspects an employee of using marijuana while at work, they are still able to conduct a drug test. Although this new law does not legalize marijuana, it prevents job applicants from being unfairly discriminated against.