It really is an exciting time if you suffer from migraines!
In September 2008, the ADA Amendments Act, which has been passed by both houses of Congress is expected to be signed into law by President George W. Bush. The Act expands the interpretation of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA), which covers all private employers, state and local governments, and educational institutions that employ 15 or more individuals. This statute prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities who are qualified for the job.
So what does that mean for migraine sufferers?
Under the old ADA court interpretations, migraines didn't make the cut as a disabling condition, well, hopefully the time of your work not having to accommodate you because you aren't "disabled enough" is over.
Just because most of us do not suffer from a crippling migraine attack 24/7 does not mean that we do not work very hard to mitigate the effects of our disease with trigger management, lifestyle changes, preventative and rescue medications, yet people who don't experience migraines themselves don't see this because we suffer from an invisible illness..."but you look so good!" Right!
This law will level the playing field for migrianeurs, giving them a chance to remain independent, productive and competitive in the job market.
Personally I have been juggling working nights, FMLA, state disability leave, and an employer who is NOT migraine friendly. The ADA Amendments Act will go a long way to finally getting the leverage that I need in order to get reassigned to a shift that better suits my health.
Good luck on the job, I hope your migraines are few and far between!
I am a social worker in a nursing home and do not feel total support from my employer. They have allowed me to use FMLA. My mirgraines have are caused by scents. I have asked for a no scent policy for staff only. My employer will not do that instead they have me report to the human resorce person that a staff person is wearing a scent, then she will go and talk to them and ask them not to wear a scent. Well, that is a battle that I am not winning. In fact since I have been at the nursing home my headaces have gotten worse. I filed a complaint with the depeartement of labor who investagted and found that my employer has done eveything that they can. So I am trapped. I am looking for another job, no luck yet. I am sick almost every day. I almost have no life and I am in pain. If my employer would be more supportive then I might have a chance to feel better.