Laws+Affecting+Disabled+Americans


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= = =Laws and Rights Affecting Disabled Americans= "The term "Disability" means: A physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more of the major life activities of an individual." The Americans with disabilities Act (ADA) was passed in 1990. This act, not only employed thousands of disabled people, but it also opened up many opportunities people with disabilities never had before. The act gave disabled people freedoms they had never dreamed of. The ADA made a big crack in the barrier that faces people with disabilities.

=Important Laws Affecting the Disabled:= __**Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) - 1990:**__ This law bans the discrimination of people with disabilities in employment, public accommodations, telecommunication, and public service. This law entitles disabled Americans to the same treatment in the workplace. It also states that a disabled person can not be fired because of their disability. (This only goes into affect if there are more than 15 employees each working 20 or more calender weeks.)

__**Education of All Handicapped Children Act - 1975:**__ This law requires that all 50 states provide a free public education for all school aged children with disabilities. It also requires an individualized education program. [This act was later named Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).]

__**Rehabilitation Act of 1973:**__ This law bans the discrimination of disabled people in employment. It also includes contractors and subcontractors who work for the federal government or receive funding from the federal government.

For more information on disabilities rights and laws please visit the sites below:
= = = = ===Navigation: History & Time Line-Important People- Virtual Legacies-Quotes-Quick Facts- Sports for the Disabled- Bibliography and Links ===