What Is the Americans with Disabilities Act?

The ADA, passed by large bipartisan majorities in both houses of Congress, was signed into law by then President Bush in 1990. It prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability in employment, services rendered by state and local government, places of public accommodation, transportation and telecommunications.

Like Section 503 and Section 504 of the 1973 Rehabilitation Act, the ADA requires employers and state and local government agencies to accommodate the individual needs of persons with disabilities when necessary to ensure equal opportunity.

What Kinds of Disabilities "Qualify" Under ADA?

Any physical or mental condition which significantly limits at least one major life activity, such as caring for oneself, eating, dressing, learning, working, walking and seeing, is covered as a disability under the ADA. An active alcoholic, drug abuser or a person with sexual dysfunction is not covered. A temporary disability may not be covered.