The Autoimmune Protection Act Will Break Barriers for Chronically Ill Workers

The Autoimmune Protection Act is a brand new law to solve an age-old problem — how can people with chronic illnesses participate in the workforce on an equal footing?

As the third most prevalent disease category in America, as many as 50 million individuals have an autoimmune disease. Over 100 autoimmune diseases lie within the category alone. The individuals living with these chronic, often disabling conditions are often not taken seriously within society, nonetheless within the workplace or schools for simple accommodations.

WAAA has shown with an ongoing survey of 170 participants with autoimmune diseases — that the Americans with Disability Act has not been successful in protecting those with autoimmune ailments or give them the proper accommodations for work or those in school — with a staggering 57.6% of participant feedback. Within that, 60.6% were discriminated against for their disability, rather accommodated and respected.

The failure to accommodate hard-working individuals with unfortunate health circumstances can have far-reaching consequences, including a diminished workforce or professional trust, and the perpetuation of discrimination. Most devastatingly, it can lead to the breakdown of an individual's self-worth, as their value and identity are often deeply tied to their profession and contributions.

When individuals with autoimmune diseases begin to ask for accommodations — such as remote options — as a way to improve their quality of life and work ethic, they often are denied. With 51.7% of participants mentioning their accommodation requests getting denied. Employment and educational avenues often crumble, with 77% stating they dropped out due to a lack of accommodations, and 54.7% of autoimmune patients who lost their jobs due to their disability.

For individuals living with chronic diseases, the flexibility to pursue education or career goals remotely is a game-changer. It allows them to manage their health and work/study schedule in a way that suits their needs, without the added stress of commuting or rigid schedules. However, some may raise concerns about time management, fairness to others, and potential judgment or confusion. Nevertheless, with the right tools, support, and understanding, remote opportunities can be a powerful equalizer, enabling individuals with chronic diseases to reach their full potential and participate fully in society. 

The evidence is irrefutable: a staggering 88.8% of autoimmune patients report that the ability to learn and work remotely would significantly improve their quality of life. The Autoimmune Protection Act is a crucial step forward in the fight for equality, protection, and the basic rights to life and liberty guaranteed by the Fourteenth Amendment. By supporting this Act, we can help ensure that individuals with autoimmune diseases are afforded the same opportunities and dignity as everyone else

As someone suffering alongside the 50 million other Americans with autoimmune diseases battling the educational system on into societies workforce — having family who have been through the chaos of autoimmune diseases and rare conditions — I believe it is beyond time to recognize the importance of taking care of each other. Beyond time to show consideration for those making money on a business's behalf. Beyond time to ensure their educational needs are being met. Beyond time for genuine compassion.

No one should suffer the loss of their job or education due to an uncontrollable illness. It's high time for society to expand our understanding of chronic illnesses and work towards creating a world where the chronically ill can thrive. They deserve equal opportunities and a good life, just like anyone else.

We must show acknowledgment, empathy and boost the self-worth of our nation's most vulnerable individuals, just as we would want others to do for us. It's essential to provide protections and ensure that individuals living with invisible chronic conditions receive the basic rights and accommodations they deserve. By doing so, we can create a more inclusive and supportive society where everyone can thrive.

Maryland has taken a significant step in supporting employees with autoimmune disorders by enacting The Employee Autoimmune Protection Act. This legislation prohibits employers from requiring employees to work on-site if they provide documentation from a licensed healthcare provider stating that they have been diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder or qualifying illness, and that on-site work or commuting would be unsafe for the employee. Additionally, the employee's job duties must be able to be reasonably performed from home. This act aims to protect the health and well-being of employees with autoimmune disorders, promoting a more inclusive and supportive work environment.

May this legislation be a beacon of hope for a future where every individual can thrive in the workplace or chase after their educational goals, regardless of their health circumstances.