Final answer:
The false statement is that reasonable accommodation for substance abuse means abusers can be fired immediately upon uncovering their abuse problem. ADA requires employers to consider assistance before termination.
Step-by-step explanation:
The false statement among the options provided is: c. Reasonable accommodation for substance abuse generally is interpreted to mean that abusers can be fired immediately upon uncovering their abuse problem. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) prohibits discrimination against those with disabilities and requires reasonable accommodations for them on the job, which may include employees dealing with substance abuse. 'Reasonable accommodation' implies that employers must consider opportunities for assistance or rehabilitation before firing an employee for substance abuse problems, provided that the abuse does not affect their job performance or safety. Furthermore, the importance of a well-enforced policy about employee confidentiality is crucial for effective employee counseling programs, which aligns with legislation that affords employees the right to lodge confidential complaints.
Employers do indeed see healthcare costs as a significant factor in encouraging counseling programs for employees. An example of employers taking action due to substance misuse can be found in the case Employment Division v. Smith, in which employees were fired for using peyote, regardless of its religious significance for them, which demonstrates how violation of company policies can lead to termination.