ADA Overview

What is the Americans with Disabilities Act?

The ADA, Passed in 1990, is a comprehensive federal civil rights law that prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability.

The ADA defines a disability as:

  • A physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities (i.e. working, talking, hearing, seeing, caring for ones self)
  • Or having a record of such an impairment;
  • Or being regarded by others as having an impairment such as individuals with severe facial scarring.

There are five Titles within the ADA that cover:

  • Title I: Employment
  • Title II: State & Local Governments
  • Title III: Places of Public Accommodations and Commercial Facilities
  • Title IV: Telecommunications
  • Title V: Miscellaneous Provisions

Click on any of the Title links to view a description of the Title or you may opt to View All Titles.