It is unlawful for an employer to take a discriminatory action because of a history of disability or because of a perception of disability. Learn about discrimination law, the Americans with Disability Act, and more.Find a NYC disability discrimination lawyer through our Legal Referral Service. Employers can't refuse to provide reasonable accommodations for employees' and applicants' known disabilities in connection with the job they hold or seek. You must file a charge with the EEOC before filing a federal disability discrimination lawsuit. The alleged act of discrimination must have taken place within, or have sufficient connection to, New York City for a complaint to be filed with the Commission. The law prohibits most employers, as well as state and local governments, from discriminating against disabled people in all areas of the employment prospects. A charge of discrimination generally must be filed within 180 days of the alleged discrimination. The New York City Human Rights Law prohibits employers from engaging in employment discrimination based on mental illness. What does disability discrimination look like?