News Archives

DOJ Seeks Public Comment on Proposed Changes to Regulations Implementing the ADA

The Department of Justice (DOJ) asked for public comment on proposed changes to its regulations implementing Titles II and III of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA). The proposed regulations will establish specific requirements for the design of accessible public facilities such as courtrooms and an array of recreational facilities including playgrounds, swimming pools, amusement parks and golf courses, making it easier for individuals with disabilities to enjoy leisure activities and otherwise participate in society. Deadline for comments was August 18, 2008.

National Forum on Disability Issues

A historic, nonpartisan forum on national disability policy was held on July 26, 2008 in Columbus, OH. Over a thousand Americans with disabilities and their friends and family are expected to attend the event to commemorate the 18th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Emerging Trends & People with Disabilities: Public Consultation

The National Council on Disability (NCD) gathered public input for a study of emerging issues and trends affecting the lives of people with disabilities. Information gathered will be used in the development of NCD's next annual progress report to the President and Congress. The Council asked for input on disability issues including health, housing, employment, insurance, transportation, assistive technology, recreation, emergency preparedness, early intervention and education. Deadline for suggestions was July 22, 2008.

Webinar: ADA Coverage Beyond Actual Disability

Webinar took place July 22, 2008 and addressed how the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) provides protections to people who may not have a current ADA defined disability, and provide employers with information that will help them to avoid pitfalls that may be encountered when navigating this often overlooked area of the law.

Audioconference: Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Update - 18 Years Later

This online conference took place July 15, 2008 from 1:00 - 2:30 P.M. CST. Representatives from Federal agencies presented updates on their ADA litigation, technical assistance and enforcement efforts over the past year.

DOJ Proposed Amendments to Regulations Implementing ADA

The Department of Justice (DOJ) announced today its intent to solicit comment on proposed amendments to its regulations implementing Titles II and III of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA). The proposed regulations will, for the first time, establish specific requirements for the design of accessible public facilities such as courtrooms and an array of recreation facilities making it easier for individuals with disabilities to travel, enjoy sports and leisure activities, play and otherwise participate in society. Read the complete text of the proposed changes.

National ADA Symposium

An annual three day conference on the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and related disability laws, the 2008 conference was held May 12-14, 2008 in St. Louis, MO. Each year, the ADA Symposium brings together representatives from key federal agencies involved in implementing the ADA, including the U.S. Department of Justice, the U.S. Access Board and the EEOC to provide comprehensive training and updates.

Access Board Town Meeting

The U.S. Access Board held a town meeting in St. Louis, MO on May 12, 2008 during the National ADA Symposium. The event provided a forum for the public to advise the Board on accessibility issues and concerns.

EEOC Addresses Employment of Veterans with Service-Connected Disabilities

The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has issued two new question-and-answer (Q&A) guides providing technical assistance for employers and veterans on workplace issues affecting veterans with service-connected disabilities. For more resources see the Employment section of the site.

National Disability Policy: A Progress Report

Report issued on January 15, 2008 by the National Council on Disability (NCD) that examines employment, housing, education, transportation and other federal policies that affect people with disabilities.

Accommodating People With Disabilities In Disasters: A Reference Guide To Federal Law

Summarizes equal access requirements for people with disabilities as they relate to disaster care, housing and human services. This guide explains how applicable Federal laws relate to government entities and non-government, private sector and religious organizations. Read the complete guide by clicking here.

EEOC Presents 3rd Annual Freedom to Compete Award

During a ceremony on Wednesday, September 26, 2007, Naomi C. Earp, Chair of the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), presented the third annual Freedom to Compete Award to five employers from the private and public sectors for best practices that promote access and inclusion.

17th Anniversary of the ADA: A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America

'NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim July 26, 2007, as a day in celebration of the 17th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act.' Read the entire text of the President's proclamation by clicking here.

The President's New Freedom Initiative: The 2007 Progress Report

Announced in February, 2001, the New Freedom Initiative is President George W. Bush's plan to tear down barriers to full integration into American life that remain for many of the 54 million Americans with disabilities. This report highlights the accomplishments of the Administration in implementing the President's vision and builds upon the reports issued in May 2002 and May 2004.

Impact of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): Assessing the Progress Toward Achieving the Goals of the ADA

A July 2007 report from the National Council on Disability (NCD) which contains recommendations for addressing the barriers that are preventing full achievement of the goals of the ADA.

National Council on Disability (NCD) to Release Reports on ADA

News release from NCD announcing the release of two reports on the Americans with Disabilities Act at a news conference to be held in Chicago, IL on July 26, 2007 at 9:30 a.m., in celebration of the 17th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Implementation of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): Challenges, Best Practices & New Opportunities for Success

A July 2007 report from the National Council on Disabilities (NCD) describing the many strategies for ADA implementation that have been successful, as well as the obstacles that remain.

U.S. Access Board Proposes Guidelines for Federal Outdoor Developed Areas

The U.S. Access Board has issued for public comment new guidelines for Federal parks and trails, beach routes and picnic and camping areas. Comment Deadline: October 18, 2007.

Federal Settlement Agreement Will Make Subway Shops Accessible to Individuals with Disabilities

Settlement agreement under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) with Doctor Associates Inc. (DAI), the privately held corporation that franchises Subway sandwich shops throughout the United States. The agreement, which sets out steps to make Subway shops physically accessible to people with disabilities, affects more than 20,000 Subway franchises.

Ticket to Work & Work Incentives Advisory Panel Annual Reports

Ticket to Work & Work Incentives Advisory Panel Annual Reports
  • The White House: President George W. Bush
  • USA.gov: The U.S. government's official web portal.