T. 8/18/92
SBO:LMS:kgf
DJ# 192-180-11036

AUG 21, 1992


The Honorable Richard Shelby
United States Senate
313 Hart Senate Building
Washington, D.C. 20510-0103

Dear Senator Shelby:

        This letter responds to your recent inquiry on behalf ofyour 
constituent, XX(b)(6).

        Mr. XX(b)(6) states that his employment was terminated on
March 4, 1992, by a food store in Dora, Alabama, based on his
disability. Title I of the Americans With Disabilities Act,
which prohibits discrimination by employers with twenty-five or
more employees, became effective on July 26, 1992. As the
alleged act of discrimination occurred prior to title I's
effective date, Mr. XX(b)(6) allegations would not be covered by
that title.

        Apparently, Mr. XX(b)(6) is also alleging that the store where
he was employed is a Federal contractor, and thus, subject to
section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, which
prohibits discrimination on the basis of handicap by Federal
contractors. Section 503 is enforced by the Office of Federal
Contract Compliance Programs, Department of Labor. As the
enclosed letter reflects, we have forwarded XX(b)(6)
correspondence to that office for review and, if necessary,
appropriate action.

        I hope this information will assist you in responding to
your constituent's inquiry.

                                        Sincerely,
                                        John R. Dunne
                                Assistant Attorney General
                                  Civil Rights Division
Enclosure

    :udd:stewart:shelby.ltr
cc: Records, CRS, Friedlander, Stewart, McDowney FOIA


01-01447