Definition

The definition of disability is the existence of a sensory, mental or physical impairment that can either be medically recognized or diagnosed, or that a person was previously diagnosed with or has a history of having, or that others believe to exist whether or not the impairment actually exists.

Further Definition

A disability may be temporary or permanent, common or uncommon, or relieved or not relieved by medication. The law does not require that a disability limit a person's ability to work generally, to work at a particular job, to have an impact on major life activity, or to substantially limit a person.

Physical Impairment

Physical impairment is defined as any physical disorder or condition, cosmetic disfigurement, or loss of body part that affects one or more of these body systems: neurological, musculoskeletal, special sense organs, respiratory, speech organs, cardiovascular, reproductive, digestive, genitourinary, blood and lymphatic, skin and endocrine.

Mental Impairment

The definition of mental impairment is any mental, developmental, psychological or traumatic disorder. These disorders include, but are not limited to, mental or emotional illness, limits on cognitive abilities, decreased mental functioning (organic brain syndrome) and specific learning disabilities.

Considerations

Examples of what's not included in the Washington State law definition of disability are personality traits such as chronic tardiness or irritability (they may be symptoms of disabilities), physical traits such as being left-handed or short, and an abnormal pregnancy.

Source:

Disability Overview - A Quick Review Of the New Law

Washington State Human Rights Commission Disability Questions

Resource:

Chapter 49.60 RCW - Discrimination