What is the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)?

The Americans with Disabilities Act (known as the ADA) was signed into law by President George H.W. Bush in 1988.

From the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division:

"Barriers to employment, transportation, public accommodations, public services, and telecommunications have imposed staggering economic and social costs on American society and have undermined our well-intentioned efforts to educate, rehabilitate, and employ individuals with disabilities. By breaking down these barriers, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) will enable society to benefit from the skills and talents of individuals with disabilities, will allow us all to gain from their increased purchasing power and ability to use it, and will lead to fuller, more productive lives for all Americans.

The Americans with Disabilities Act gives civil rights protections to individuals with disabilities similar to those provided to individuals on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, and religion. It guarantees equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities in public accommodations, employment, transportation, State and local government services, and telecommunications.
Fair, swift, and effective enforcement of this landmark civil rights legislation is a high priority of the Federal Government"

For more information about the ADA visit these websites:

United States Department of Justice ADA Home Page

Unites States Department of Education-NIDRR ADA & IT Technical Assistance Centers

The Access Board Center for accessible Design