Few policies say “people with disabilities need not apply.” Barriers are built from sentences that look neutral: “must appear in person,” “original signed documents only,” “call between 8 and 4:30,” “complete within the 20-minute session or start over,” “must be able to lift fifty pounds and stand for long periods.” Each one chooses a method and forgets to say why. Reading policy for barriers means asking, of every requirement, what outcome it protects and whether that outcome truly needs this method.
Three reading habits help. First, look for single-channel language: one way to apply, one way to notify, one place to appear. Second, look for time and format rigidity: deadlines with no exception process, timed sessions with no extension, ink signatures, image-only PDFs. Third, look for job requirements stated as physical traits instead of essential functions: “must lift fifty pounds” when the essential function is moving supplies, which can be done with equipment or another method.
Rewriting keeps the purpose and opens the method. “Attend orientation in person” becomes “complete the orientation, which is offered in person, by video with captions, or by phone with materials sent in advance.” “Sign in ink” becomes “sign the attestation; electronic signature and alternative formats are available.” Where a requirement really is essential, the rewrite says so and names how a person asks for a modification and who decides. That last sentence matters most: fundamental alteration, undue burden and essential function are decisions made by a responsible official with documentation, not by whoever is holding the form.
