Guide for Small Businesses and Other ADA Information

Government-wide disability information:

www.disabilityinfo.gov

WHAT IS THE ADA? The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) gives federal civil rights protections to individuals with disabilities similar to those provided to individuals on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, and religion. It guarantees equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities in public accommodations, employment, transportation, State and local government services, and telecommunications.

ADA GUIDE FOR SMALL BUSINESSES. This 15-page illustrated guide presents an overview of some basic ADA requirements for small businesses that provide goods and services to the public. It provides guidance on how to make their services accessible and how tax credits and deductions may be used to offset specific costs. ADA Guide for Small Businesses (PDF)

SECTION 508 OF THE REHABILITATION ACT: In 1998, Congress amended the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and strengthened provisions covering access to information in the Federal sector for people with disabilities. As amended, Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act requires access to the Federal government’s electronic and information technology. The law applies to all Federal agencies when they develop, procure, maintain, or use electronic and information technology. Federal agencies must ensure that this technology is accessible to employees and the public, including persons with disabilities. The law directs the Access Board to develop access standards that will become part of the Federal procurement regulations. See more on the Federal IT Accessibility Initiative web site at http://www.section508.gov.

OTHER KEY ADA DOCUMENTS: How to File Complaints: Complaints about violations of title I (employment) by units of State and local government or by private employers should be filed with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. Call 800-669-4000 (voice) or 800-669-6820 (TDD) to reach the field office in your area. Complaints about violations of title II by units of State and local government or violations of title III by public accommodations and commercial facilities (private businesses and non-profit service providers) should be filed with the Department of Justice. Please send complaints to:

Disability Rights Section
Civil Rights Division
U.S. Department of Justice
Post Office Box 66738
Washington, DC 20035-6738