Law, Regulations & Standards
When we talk about what the ADA requires on ADA.gov, we are usually referring to two sources. First, the text of the ADA, also referred to as the ADA statute, passed by Congress in 1990 and later amended. Second, regulations developed by the Department of Justice that state/local governments and many businesses must follow to ensure that they do not discriminate against people with disabilities.
Regulations
Regulations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) explain the rights of people with disabilities and the obligations of those covered by the laws.
Design Standards
The ADA Standards for Accessible Design say what is required for a building or facility to be physically accessible to people with disabilities.
Or, go straight to any of the following by clicking any of the links below.
The Americans with Disabilities Act
This is the law that protects the civil rights of people with disabilities in many aspects of public life.
Title II Regulations
State and Local GovernmentsThe Title II Regulations explains the rights of people with disabilities and the obligations of state and local governments.
Title III Regulations
Public Accommodations and Commercial FacilitiesThe Title III Regulations explains the rights of people with disabilities and the obligations of businesses, nonprofit organizations, and commercial facilities.
Resources
Guides and primers curate information for people with disabilities, state and local governments, and businesses.
A Guide to Disability Rights Laws
A brief overview of ten Federal laws that protect the rights of people with disabilities and the Federal agencies to contact for more information.
A Primer for State and Local Governments
This document provides general guidance to assist State and local governments in understanding and complying with the ADA's requirements.
A Primer for Small Business
This document provides general guidance to assist small businesses in understanding and complying with the ADA's requirements.
Proposed Changes to Our Regulations
In the Fall 2023 Unified Agenda, DOJ announced that it plans to issue new ADA regulations on the following topics:
- Medical Diagnostic Equipment
- Title II Web Accessibility
- The Public Right of Way
- Equipment and Furniture
What is the Unified Agenda?
The Unified Agenda provides information about federal agencies’ regulatory priorities and the specific regulations that they plan to issue in the short and long term.