Getting to know the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
The federal Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), passed in 1990, is the first comprehensive declaration of equality for people with disabilities. It’s designed to protect the civil rights of people with disabilities in all aspects of employment, in accessing public services such as transportation, and in guaranteeing access to all public accommodations.
The ADA National Network provides information, guidance, and training on the ADA to people with disabilities, employers, and other entities with related responsibilities. It consists of regional ADA national network centers located around the nation.
Employment
- Employers may not discriminate against an individual with a disability in hiring or promotion if the person is otherwise qualified for the job.
- Employers will need to provide reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. This includes steps such as job restructuring and modification of equipment.
Public accommodations
- Private entities such as restaurants, hotels, and retail stores may not discriminate against individuals with disabilities.
- Physical barriers in existing facilities must be removed, if removal is readily achievable. If not, alternative methods of providing the services must be offered, if they are readily achievable. All new construction and alterations of facilities must be accessible.
Transportation
- New public transit buses (ordered after August 26, 1990) must be accessible to individuals with disabilities.
- New bus and train stations must be accessible and all existing stations must be made accessible.