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Home > Accessibility > Accessibility Laws
Accessibility LawsThe Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in the workplace, in state and local government programs and activities, and in places of public accommodation. Also, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act bars recipients of federal financial assistance—such as federal, state, and local governmental agencies programs and services—from discriminating against individuals with disabilities. In addition, some arguments have been made that the ADA covers certain Web-based activities. Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act creates an accessible workplace for federal employees with disabilities. People who are blind or visually impaired must be able to access and use government information and services as independently and effectively as those who are sighted—fill out an electronic form; keep a copy of the form; or access information describing a federal program. Section 255 of the Telecommunications Act of 1996 requires companies who make telephones and those who provide telephone service (including wireless phones and service) to design their products and services to be accessible to people with disabilities, if it is readily achievable to do so. Section 255 applies to all telephone equipment and services at home, at work, and on the go. The Internet and electronic mail are not currently covered under Section 255. The Help America Vote Act—After the chaos and allegations of elections fraud surrounding the 2000 Presidential elections, Congress passed the Help America Vote Act (HAVA). The Act seeks to replace antiquated punch cards, which were the source of many problems. In addition, the Act seeks to make election procedures in general more uniform and ensure that voters are not discriminated against. Voting systems must provide for independent and private voting for all voters, including disabled citizens, and must allow voters to verify their selections and make changes before casting their vote. Related ArticlesRelated Announcements |
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