For the 57 million Americans with disabilities, access means being able to use, enjoy, and participate in the many aspects of society, including work, commerce, and leisure activities.

Transportation is a vital link that allows full participation. The U.S. Department of Transportation is fully committed to building an accessible transportation system that provides equal access for all Americans and prevents discrimination against persons with disabilities.

The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA), which became law 25 years ago this week, prohibits discrimination and ensures equal opportunity and access for persons with disabilities in employment, State and local government services, public accommodations, commercial facilities and transportation. The Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability in air travel and requires air carriers to accommodate the needs of passengers with disabilities.

On this 25th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, I am reinforcing our commitment to ensuring that persons with disabilities have equal access to our Nation's streets, sidewalks, crosswalks, buses, trains, airports, planes, and other transportation services.

Through this policy, I am directing the Under Secretary for Policy, the General Counsel, the Director of the Office of Civil Rights, the Chief Information Officer, and the Operating Administrators to work together to develop and disseminate a streamlined, simplified, and consistent process for submitting questions and concerns to the Department about accessibility challenges faced by persons with disabilities. I am confident that working together we can ensure an accessible transportation system that provides equal access for all Americans.

[Signature]

Anthony R. Foxx