Connecticut Ruling Prohibits Discrimination Based on Perceived Physical Disability: Employment Law Manual Updated

Authors: Melissa Burdorf and Beth Zoller, XpertHR Legal Editors

The Connecticut Fair Employment Practices Act (CFEPA) prohibits discrimination on the basis of a physical or mental disability. While the CFEPA also expressly protects individuals who are "regarded as" having a mental disability, it does not have a similar provision for physical disabilities. The Connecticut Supreme Court recently ruled that employers are prohibited from discriminating against individuals who are perceived as having a physical disability under the CFEPA.

In light of this development, the Connecticut Disabilities (ADA) and EEO - Discrimination sections of the Employment Law Manual have been updated.