Understanding the ADA
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a civil rights law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including housing, employment, transportation, and telecommunications. The ADA was signed into law on July 26, 1990, by President George H. W. Bush.
What are the goals of the ADA?
The goals of the ADA are to:
- Eliminate discrimination against individuals with disabilities
- Increase the independence, self-sufficiency, participation, and employment of individuals with disabilities
- Ensure that individuals with disabilities have full and equal access to society
What are some of the key provisions of the ADA?
The ADA prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in the following areas:
- Employment
- State and local government services
- Public accommodations
- Commercial facilities
- Transportation
- Telecommunications
Who is protected by the ADA?
The ADA protects individuals with disabilities who meet the following definition:
- A physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities
- A history of or being regarded as having such an impairment
The ADA defines “major life activities” as including, but not limited to, “caring for oneself, performing manual tasks, walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing, learning, working, and sleeping.”
This article is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Contact us today to discuss your specific situation.