Employers Be Warned! Prior Remote Work May Preclude Hardship Defense
On August 13, 2025, the United States District Court for the District of Columbia issued a decision addressing an employer’s obligations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in the context of remote work accommodations. The court’s decision presents a cautionary tale for employers with employees working remotely. Quick Hits On August 13, 2025, the United States District Court for the District of Columbia issued a decision highlighting the complexities of ADA compliance in remote work accommodations, emphasizing the need for employers to substantiate claims of essential job functions and undue hardship. The court denied the employer’s summary judgment motion, finding factual disputes regarding the essential nature of in-person job functions and whether the requested remote work accommodation imposed an undue hardship. This decision underscores the importance of individualized assessments, clear documentation, and open communication when handling ADA accommodation requests, pa...