Dealing with tuberculosis (TB) from work can be tough on your health and job security. Minnesota laws give workers in your situation some protections, but you need to know the rules and limits. Knowing your rights under state and federal laws can help you keep your job while you get better and focus on treatment.
What legal protections cover your TB recovery period?
If you work in Minnesota and have TB, you might get protection under:
- Minnesota Human Rights Act (MHRA): This act prohibits discrimination from your employer or workplace based on disabilities, such as infectious diseases such as TB
- Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): Your employer with 15 or more workers must provide reasonable help to qualified workers with disabilities.
- Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA): You can take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave and keep your job status safe.
- Minnesota Sick Leave Benefits Law: You can use sick time to get better from medical issues.
Your TB diagnosis probably counts as a protected disability. Your employer should help you with accommodations unless it’s too hard for the business.
Can your employer require medical clearance before you return?
Yes, but with some rules:
- Your boss can ask for proof that you’re safe to be around others.
- Questions about your health must focus on your ability to do your job.
- What you need to return to work must make sense for the business.
- Your medical info stays private under ADA and MHRA.
These rules apply to everyone with similar issues and can’t be used to single you out or treat you unfairly.
When legal support becomes essential
If your employer fired you or threatened to fire you while you were getting better from TB, you might have some options. A legal professional who knows Minnesota employment law can look at your case, determine your protections, and help if something’s wrong. Remember, you have time limits to file discrimination complaints: 365 days with the Minnesota Department of Human Rights or 300 days with the EEOC. So, act quickly. A lawyer can also explain how workers’ compensation, disability benefits, and your job rights fit together during this tough time.
