Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990

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101st United States Congress
Citation
Territorial extent
Considered by
Enacted by	101st United States Congress
Passed
Enacted
Considered by
Enacted by

The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1988, a precursor to the 1990 Act.

Page two of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.

Page one of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.

President George H. W. Bush signing the ADA into law on July 26, 1990.

The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) is a landmark civil rights law that prohibits discrimination based on disability. It was enacted by the 101st United States Congress and signed into law by President George H. W. Bush on July 26, 1990. The ADA is one of the most comprehensive pieces of civil rights legislation in the United States, designed to ensure that people with disabilities have the same rights and opportunities as everyone else.

Provisions of the ADA

The ADA is divided into five titles (or sections) that relate to different areas of public life:

• Title I: Employment - This title prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in employment. It requires employers to provide reasonable accommodations to employees with disabilities and sets out the standards for what constitutes discrimination.

• Title II: Public Services - This title prohibits discrimination by public entities, such as state and local governments. It requires that public services, programs, and activities be accessible to individuals with disabilities.

• Title III: Public Accommodations - This title prohibits discrimination in public accommodations, such as restaurants, hotels, and theaters. It requires that these places be accessible to individuals with disabilities.

• Title IV: Telecommunications - This title requires telephone and internet companies to provide a system of telecommunications relay services that allows individuals with hearing or speech disabilities to communicate over the telephone.

• Title V: Miscellaneous Provisions - This title contains a variety of provisions, including the prohibition of retaliation against individuals who enforce their rights under the ADA.

Impact and Significance

The ADA has had a profound impact on American society by promoting the inclusion and integration of individuals with disabilities. It has led to the removal of physical barriers in public spaces, increased accessibility in transportation, and greater awareness of the rights of individuals with disabilities.

The ADA has also influenced international disability rights legislation and has been a model for similar laws in other countries.

Challenges and Criticisms

Despite its successes, the ADA has faced challenges and criticisms. Some argue that the law is not always effectively enforced, and there are ongoing debates about what constitutes "reasonable accommodation" and "undue hardship" for employers.

Also see

• Rehabilitation Act of 1973
• Civil Rights Act of 1964
• Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
• Fair Housing Act