What is a “reasonable accommodation request”?
A reasonable accommodation request is any request (formal or informal) by an employee seeking to modify a rule, policy, or physical environment in order for the individual to perform their job. The employee’s medical need or disability prompts this.
California employers should treat every request as a trigger to promptly engage in and document the interactive process required under the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA).
If you would like to do a deep dive into a recent case, Miller v. California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (2024). Is a great one to examine because it shows that the employer engaged in a timely, good-faith interactive process and the employee could not identify reasonable accommodation that had been missed.
This case’s decision reinforces that an employer’s strongest defense is not necessarily a perfect process. Instead it is a documented one that shows active participation, ongoing communication, and meaningful consideration of available accommodations.
Give us a call today if you want help organizing your interactive process tools!
AI & Data Security
As AI becomes more common in the workplace, it is important to protect confidential and sensitive information when using AI tools. While AI can improve efficiency and productivity, entering business, client, employee, and other sensitive data into AI platforms can create security, privacy, and compliance risks.
Employers should ensure employees only use approved AI tools and understand expectations for responsible AI use. Regularly reviewing AI practices, providing training, and maintaining appropriate safeguards can help reduce risk and support compliance with legal and contractual obligations.
If your organization needs assistance developing or reviewing an AI policy, we can help!
Harassment Prevention Training
As August approaches, it’s time to schedule your Harassment Prevention Training if you are on an even-year training cycle.
California requires employers to provide Harassment Prevention Training to all employees. Non-supervisory employees must complete a one-hour training, while supervisors are required to complete a two-hour training. There are specific topics and content considerations. Training must be completed within six months of hire or promotion and renewed every two years thereafter.
Contact us today to ensure your team remains in compliance!
📞 916.576.1976 (Folsom) & 949.424.8175 (Orange County)
📧 hrninja@peoplerockhr.com
Offices in Folsom and San Clemente, Orange County, CA
