Van Hollen, Colleagues Press Walmart CEO To Support Workers With Disabilities

U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) joined a group of his colleagues in calling on Walmart CEO Doug McMillon to ensure that the company uphold its commitment to workers with disabilities. Recent reports of updated job requirements and the elimination of positions altogether highlight the disproportionate impact that changes in policy can have on individuals with disabilities. Specifically, the Senators inquired about the company’s decision to eliminate the greeter position and its efforts to make “reasonable accommodations” for employees hurt by this move.

“We understand that businesses may make changes to the job requirements of certain positions, but we are concerned that the elimination of the greeter position may preclude individuals with disabilities from working at Walmart,” wrote the Senators. “We know you are aware that federal law bans employment discrimination against individuals with disabilities, and the Americans with Disabilities Act requires employers to make “reasonable accommodations” for qualified employees with disabilities.  We ask you to help us better understand the accommodations Walmart has made for the greeters with disabilities in light of their changing job requirements and to provide more information on the company’s commitment to employing individuals with disabilities.”

U.S. Senators Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Bob Casey (D-PA) joined Van Hollen in this effort.

A full copy of the letter is available here.

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