The Americans with Disabilities Act became law in 1990.  The ADA is modeled after the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.  It is often called the civil rights act for disabled people.  Five of the most important ADA guidelines are listed below

1. Definition of Disability

Under the ADA disability is defined as "A physical or mental impairment which substantially limits one or more major life activities; or a record of such impairment; or being regarded as having such an impairment.  This is a broad definition and was defined as such to cover any person who faces discrimination because of a disability.  Major life activities include:

• to caring for oneself
• performing manual tasks,
• seeing, hearing, eating, sleeping, walking, standing, lifting, bending, speaking, breathing, learning, reading, concentrating, thinking, communicating and working

This list is not all-inclusive.  The act also defines major bodily functions that can cause disability includes but is not limited to:

• functions of the immune system
• normal cell growth
• digestive, bowel, bladder, neurological, brain, respiratory, circulatory, endocrine and reproductive functions

These definitions were expanded in the 2008 amendments to the ADA in reaction to Supreme Court rulings, which had restricted the definition of disability.

2. Employment

Employers must provide reasonable accommodations in all aspects of employment to protect the rights of disabled people.  Employers covered by the ADA are those with 15 or more employees.  The ADA applies to private business as well as local, state and federal governments, employment agencies, and labor organizations.

3. Public Accommodations and Public Services

Under the ADA, all new construction must be made accessible to persons with disability.  Disabled persons cannot be denied access to public service programs or activities that are available to persons who are not disabled.  This portion of the act is enforced by the Justice Department.

4. Telecommunications

Telecommunication companies must have telephone service for persons who use telecommunication devices for the deaf (TTY) or similar devices.  The Federal Communications Commission enforces this part of the ADA.

5. Attorneys Fees

The Americans with Disabilities Act authorizes Courts to award attorney’s fees to successful litigants.  This provision encourages attorneys to take these types of cases and encourages disabled persons to enforce their rights.

Do you need a lawyer?

If you think you have been a victim of discrimination because of your disability, consult a lawyer who specializes in disability law.  They can advise you on the strength or weakness of your case, give you information about what you need to prove your case.