Virginia Disability Discrimination Laws: Your Rights Under VHRA

Quick Answer: The Virginia Human Rights Act (VHRA) prohibits disability discrimination at employers with 5+ employees—broader than federal ADA (15+). Employers must provide reasonable accommodations unless undue hardship. Virginia allows uncapped damages. File within 300 days.

Virginia provides strong disability protections.

Virginia Disability Protections

VHRA Coverage

Protects:

• Physical disabilities
• Mental disabilities
• Medical conditions
• Perceived disabilities

Applies to:

• 5+ employee employers
• 300-day deadline

Federal ADA

Also provides:

• Similar protections
• 15+ employees
• Works with state law

Reasonable Accommodation

Employer's Duty

Must provide:

• Reasonable accommodation
• Unless undue hardship
• Interactive process

Common Accommodations

Examples:

• Modified schedule
• Accessible workspace
• Equipment modifications
• Leave for treatment
• Work from home

What's Prohibited

Hiring

Cannot:

• Ask about disabilities pre-offer
• Refuse hire based on disability
• Require pre-offer medical exams

Workplace Treatment

Cannot:

• Fire based on disability
• Harass over disability
• Deny accommodations without hardship

Filing Complaints

EEOC (Federal)

Options:

• Phone: 1-800-669-4000
• Richmond: 804-771-2200
• 300-day deadline

Virginia DOLI

Office of Civil Rights:

• Phone: 804-225-2292

Common Scenarios

Scenario 1: Accommodation Denied

Situation: Requested modification, employer refused.

Analysis: Must accommodate unless hardship. Document request.

Scenario 2: Small Employer

Situation: Work for 8-person company, need accommodation.

Analysis: VHRA covers 5+ employees. You're protected.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Virginia protect disabled workers?

Yes. VHRA covers 5+ employee employers.

What accommodations are required?

Reasonable ones without undue hardship.

What damages can I recover?

Uncapped compensatory and punitive damages.

Related Topics

• Virginia Workplace Discrimination
• Virginia FMLA Guide
• Virginia Employment Law Hub

Take Action

If facing disability discrimination:

1. Request accommodation in writing
2. Document interactions
3. Note 300-day deadline
4. Consult attorney

Legal Disclaimer

This article provides general information about disability discrimination in Virginia and is not legal advice. For specific advice, consult a licensed Virginia employment attorney.

For official information:

• Virginia DOLI: https://www.doli.virginia.gov | 804-225-2292
• EEOC Richmond: 804-771-2200