Multiple sclerosis and workplace discrimination: The national EEOC ADA research project

Information from the Integrated Mission System of the United States Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) was used to investigate the employment discrimination experience of Americans with multiple sclerosis (MS) in comparison to Americans with other physical, sensory, and neurological impairments. Specifically, the researchers examined demographic characteristics of the charging parties; the industry designation, location, and size of employers against whom allegations were filed; the nature of discrimination (i.e., type of adverse action) alleged to occur; and the legal outcome or resolution of these allegations. Findings indicate that persons with MS were younger than the comparison group and comparatively overrepresented by Caucasians and women. People with MS were proportionally more likely than the comparison group to allege discrimination related to reasonable accommodations, terms or conditions of employment, constructive discharge, and demotion. People with MS were proportionally more likely than the comparison group to file allegations against employers in the service and financial/insurance/real estate industries, employers with 500 or more workers, and employers in the North United States Census region. People with MS were proportionally more likely than the comparison group to receive merit resolutions as a result of the EEOC's Americans with Disabilities Act Title I investigatory process. Implications for policy and advocacy are addressed.