What is the term for the significant difficulty or expense imposed on an employer when making accommodations for individuals with disabilities?

The term for the significant difficulty or expense imposed on an employer when making accommodations for individuals with disabilities is referred to as "Undue Hardship." This concept is essential within the framework of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which mandates that employers provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities unless doing so would cause significant difficulty or expense to the employer.

The reasoning behind categorizing certain accommodations as an undue hardship lies in the balance between ensuring access and maintaining the viability of the business. Factors that contribute to determining whether an accommodation causes undue hardship include the nature and cost of the accommodation, the overall financial resources of the business, the number of employees, and the structure of the workplace.

Understanding this term is vital for legal managers and HR professionals, as it helps them navigate the complexities of compliance with disability rights laws while also considering the operational realities of their organizations. This knowledge allows employers to support employees with disabilities effectively without compromising their business operations.