Americans with Disabilities Act

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) provides individuals with disabilities protection against discrimination on the basis of their disability. The employment provisions of the law apply to employers with 15 or more employees, including state and local governments, employment agencies, and labor unions. It prohibits employers from discriminating against people with disabilities during the hiring process, in promotion and compensation, and in other employment procedures. It also outlaws discrimination in public accommodation and requires transportation and communication systems to facilitate access for people with disabilities. This entry discusses legislation that led up to the ADA, the components and goals of the law, obstacles to its enforcement, and the 2008 amendments that responded to these obstacles.