The ADA prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability in employment, programs and services provided by state and local governments, goods and services provided by private companies, and in commercial facilities.

The ADA was signed into law on July 26, 1990. It contains requirements for new construction, for alterations or renovations to buildings and facilities, and for improving access to existing facilities of private companies providing goods or services to the public. It also requires that State and local governments provide access to programs offered to the public. The ADA also covers effective communication with people with disabilities, eligibility criteria that may restrict or prevent access, and requires reasonable modifications of policies and practices that may be discriminatory.

The ADA gives the Department of Justice (DOJ) authority to issue regulations for title II and III of the ADA and to provide technical assistance and enforcement. The Department also has authority to certify that a State or local accessibility code is equivalent to the ADA's requirements for new construction and alterations.

The following links are excellent reference materials:

• ADA /Myths and Facts about the ADA
• ADA Guide for Small Businesses (pdf) version
• ADA Guide for Small Businesses (text) version
• ADA /Tax Incentives for improving Accessibility (pdf) version
• ADA Tax Incentives for improving Accessibility (text) version
• ADA Information and publications