About the ADA

The Americans with Disabilities Act is the most comprehensive federal civil rights statute protecting the rights of people with disabilities. The act applies regulations regarding access to employment; state and local government programs and services; access to places of public accommodation such as businesses, transportation and non-profit service providers; and telecommunications.

This section provides information on the structure of the ADA and identifies enforcing agencies, introduces language and information associated with the definition of disability and explains the historical context of the disability rights movement and related federal laws, culminating with the passage of the ADA.

For additional information about specific topics, see the ADA Document Portal or contact your DBTAC: ADA Center.