NASUAD Celebrates 20th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act

On July 26, 1990, President George H. Bush signed into law the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA). Today, as the ADA marks its 20th Anniversary, we recognize the importance of this monumental law.

The ADA gives federal civil rights protections to individuals with disabilities. It guarantees equal opportunity for qualified individuals with disabilities in employment, public accommodations, transportation, state and local government services, and telecommunications.

“A hallmark of this historic law is that individuals with disabilities have been able to improve their quality life by attaining access to mainstream America,” said Irene Collins, NASUAD’s President and Commissioner of the Alabama Department of Senior Services. NASUAD’s Executive Director, Martha Roherty, echoes these sentiments, “The ADA is a landmark legislation that strengthens our nation by making equal opportunity accessible to all.”

The number of individuals with disabilities is growing significantly. In 1990, 43 million Americans had one or more physical or mental disabilities. Today, based on recent census data, this estimate is 54 million.

James Toews, NASUAD’s Vice President and Assistant Director of the Oregon Department of Human Services, Seniors and People with Disabilities, recognizes the importance of this law, “The ADA affirms a fundamental right for Americans with disabilities – the right to live free from discrimination.”

As we mark the 20th anniversary of the ADA, we celebrate the accomplishments to date and recognize the importance of legislation that continues to provide for the needs of individuals with disabilities.

Read letter from Secretary Sebelius to Governors