President Bush signed the ADA Amendments Act of 2008 (ADAAA) into law on Sept. 25. It will expand interpretation of the American with Disabilities Act’s coverage, reversing a trend toward narrow construction that began with a string of U.S. Supreme Court decisions starting in 1999. The amendments become effective January 1, 2009.

Learn more from a nationally recognized authority on the Americans with Disabilities Act, Jonathan R. Mook, by participating in the HR Hero audio conference, “ADA Amendments Act Takes Effect Jan. 1: Get Ready For New Challenges.” For more information, call (800) 274-6774.

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The Ninth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has upheld the controversial Legal Arizona Workers Act (LAWA). Under the LAWA, which took effect January 1, 2008, a business found guilty of “knowingly” or “intentionally” hiring undocumented workers faces suspension or revocation of its business license and is placed on probationary status for a period of time. LAWA also requires employers to use the controversial federal E-Verify system to check employees’ work authorization status.

The suit was filed by a coalition of business and immigrant rights groups, including Chicanos por la Causa Inc., the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and Arizona Employers for Immigration Reform.

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