What federal law was passed in 1990 to prevent discrimination against people who are handicapped or disabled?

The Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) was enacted in 1990 with the purpose of preventing discrimination against individuals with disabilities. This comprehensive civil rights law ensures that people with disabilities have the same rights and opportunities as everyone else. The ADA prohibits discrimination in various areas, including employment, public accommodations, transportation, and telecommunications, promoting accessibility and inclusion for individuals with disabilities in society.

By establishing clear guidelines for the treatment of individuals with disabilities, the ADA has had a profound impact on improving access to facilities, services, and employment opportunities, cultivating an environment where everyone can participate fully in society, regardless of their abilities. This legislation marks a significant step toward ensuring equality and protecting the rights of individuals with disabilities.

Other options refer to different laws: the Child Care Development Block Grant focuses on child care services, the Family Medical Leave Act addresses job-protected leave for family and medical reasons, and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act pertains specifically to the education of children with disabilities. While these laws are important, they do not specifically target discrimination in the broad sense as the ADA does.