Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 gives civil rights protections to individuals with disabilities, including veterans, 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.

Since its establishment, there have been two major changes to the ADA. The ADA Amendments Act of 2008 (ADAAA) revised the definition of “disability” to more broadly include impairments that substantially limit a major life activity. This revision expanded ADA protections to people with epilepsy, diabetes, bipolar disorder and other disabilities. 

In addition, the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design took effect on March 15, 2012. These standards revised regulations under Title II and Title III of the ADA and established requirements for the accessibility of newly designed, constructed or altered buildings and facilities. (The new deadline for existing swimming pools to comply with the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design was extended to January 31, 2013.)

The ADA is divided into five titles:

• Title I: Employment
• Title II: State and Local Government Services
• Title III: Public Accommodations
• Title IV: Telecommunications
• Title V: Miscellaneous Provisions