The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is comprised of several different sections, or titles, and is enforced by a variety of agencies. The ADA ensures equal opportunity for persons with disabilities in employment, State and local government services, businesses that are public accommodations or commercial facilities, and in transportation. The ADA also mandates the establishment of telephone relay services for people who use TTYs (teletypewriters, also known as TDDs or telecommunications devices for deaf persons). Titles I and III are most relevant for audiology education, however, we encourage members to seek legal advice regarding specific ADA questions. Title I of the ADA prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities in employment by businesses having 15 or more employees, or by State and local governments. Title I with respect to private employers is enforced by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). Title II of the ADA prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities in State and local government services, programs, and activities. Title III of the ADA prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities in places of public accommodation and commercial facilities. Places of public accommodation include over six million privately owned business establishments of all sizes such as health care offices, restaurants, hotels, convention centers, retail stores, libraries, and daycare centers. Commercial facilities are businesses whose operations affect commerce, such as office buildings, factories, and warehouses. Title III is enforced by the U.S. Department of Justice. Title IV of the ADA mandates that telephone companies offer TTY/telephone relay services to enable individuals who use TTYs. The page provides members with a wealth of information and resources, including information regarding general ADA requirements for health care offices and the 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design.
- Introduction to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
- U.S. Department of Justice Americans with Disabilities Act Home page
- ADA Primer for Small Business
- Revised ADA Regulations Implementing Title I and Title II
- 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design
- A PowerPoint presentation reviewing the ADA Standards for Accessible Design
