Leadership Resources

Leadership Resources from the Carlson Executive MBA Program

People with Autism Spectrum Disorder in the Workplace: An Expanding Legal Frontier

The article reviews the legal protections afforded under the ADA, the ADA Amendments Act, and the Rehabilitation Act, highlighting how recent changes have broadened coverage for people with Autism Spectrum Disorder but still leave barriers, particularly around determining who is “qualified” for a job. It also explores issues in hiring, disclosure, reasonable accommodations, and workplace discipline, concluding that individuals with ASD can thrive when employers provide proactive accommodations, foster awareness, and create structured, supportive environments.