The impact of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990

Abstract

Employers are familiar with legislation prohibiting discrimination based upon ascribed characteristics such as race, color, sex, national origin, and age. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 mandates that employers also eliminate policies, procedures, and practices which discriminate against the disabled population. The ADA has five Titles, or sections, which define the law. Title I addresses discrimination in employment. Title II addresses discrimination by state and local governments. Title III addresses discrimination in places of public accommodation. Title IV addresses discrimination in telecommunications and Title V addresses miscellaneous areas such as federal wilderness areas and dispute resolution. Eliminating discrimination only in employment (Title I) would not provide the disabled population full integration into societal activities. Disabled individuals earning income would not be able to enjoy the fruits of their labor without Title II and Title III. This article examines the law as it relates to employment (Title I) and places of public accommodation (Title III). Title II will discussed only briefly.