Which legislation is designed to prevent employer discrimination based on disability?

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is the legislation specifically designed to prevent discrimination against individuals with disabilities in various areas, including employment. Enacted in 1990, the ADA prohibits employers from discriminating against qualified individuals based on their disabilities and requires them to provide reasonable accommodations to enable these individuals to perform their job duties effectively.

The ADA is significant because it recognizes that individuals with disabilities can contribute meaningfully in the workplace if given appropriate opportunities and support. It sets forth guidelines that protect these individuals from being treated unfavorably during hiring, advancement, or any employment-related processes simply due to their disability status.

The other options pertain to different areas of discrimination or workplace safety. For example, the Employee Retirement Income Security Act focuses on the protection of employee benefits and pension plans, while the Age Discrimination in Employment Act addresses discrimination based on age. The Occupational Safety and Health Act is aimed at ensuring workplace safety and health standards. These pieces of legislation, while important, do not target discrimination based on disability in the same manner as the ADA.