For the record

 

The Americans With Disabilities Act prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability in employment, programs, and services provided by state and local governments, goods and services provided by private companies, and in commercial facilities.

The ADA was signed into law on July 26, 1990. It has requirements for new construction, alterations or renovations to buildings and facilities, and improving access to existing facilities of private companies providing goods or services to the public. It requires that state and local governments provide access to programs offered to the public. Also, the ADA covers effective communication with people with disabilities, eligibility criteria which may restrict or prevent access, and requires “reasonable” modifications of policies and practices which may be discriminatory.

            The ADA gives the U.S. Department of Justice (www.ada.gov) authority to issue regulations for Title II and Title III of the ADA and to provide technical assistance and enforcement. The Justice Department has authority to certify that a state or local accessibility code is equivalent to the ADA's requirements for new construction and alterations.

            The toll-free information line to call to answer general and technical questions about the ADA and to order technical assistance materials is 1-800-514-0301 (voice), or 1-800-514-0383 (TDD).

 

For ADA Regulations and Technical Assistance Materials (click here)