Public Access Compliance - ADA
Section 210 of the Congressional Accountability Act (CAA) protects members of the public who are qualified individuals with disabilities from discrimination with regard to access to public services, programs, activities, or places of public accommodation in covered locations and offices. The following entities are required to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in their dealings with the public:
• Offices of the Senate and the House of Representatives (including district offices);
• Committees of Congress;
• Capitol Guide Service;
• Capitol Police;
• Congressional Budget Office;
• Office of the Architect of the Capitol;
• Office of the Attending Physician; and
• Office of Compliance.
Individuals who feel their rights under this provision have been violated can file a charge of discrimination with the General Counsel of the Office of Compliance (OOC). This charge must be filed within 180 days of the alleged discrimination. After a charge is filed, the General Counsel will conduct an investigation. If the investigation of the alleged discrimination reveals that a violation may have occurred, the General Counsel may either request mediation to resolve the dispute and/or file a formal complaint before a Hearing Officer with the OOC.
At least once each Congress, the General Counsel is required to inspect and report to Congress on the compliance of the Legislative Branch with the CAA’s requirements regarding access to public services and accommodations for the disabled.
This is only a brief description of the public’s rights to services and accommodations under the CAA. Additional information is available in the CAA Handbook. For complete information on the rights, procedures, and remedies established by the CAA, refer to the Congressional Accountability Act (2 U.S.C. 1301 et seq.) and the OOC Procedural Rules.
To request an ADA inspection or to file a charge of discrimination, see the attached form.Please drop off completed form to the Office of Compliance or fax to: (202) 426-1913. If you would like to email the form, please click here and email the completed form to adaaccess@compliance.gov. For instructions on completing this form, click here.