With the aim to protect and allow people with disabilities to live their lives on their own terms, the United States Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act was passed in 1973. According to this act, programs that were funded by the U.S. government could not discriminate against those with disabilities. This included universities, schools, and even workplaces.
Knowing disability rights is important so that you can advocate for yourself and your loved ones. Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) causes a number of disabilities, namely cerebral palsy (CP), epilepsy, and intellectual impairments.
This article will discuss laws that have been passed to protect people with disabilities. Even though a number of laws ensure fundamental rights, there are three legislations that specifically talk about disability rights. These include the Rehabilitation Act, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), and the Americans with Disability Act.
Disability Laws
1. Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act is an education law that makes it compulsory for public schools to cater to the needs of children with disabilities.
The unique needs of K-12 students who face any sort of disability must be met. Schools should do this by providing services either by setting aside a specially-curated syllabus for these children or hiring shadow teachers who can help them get through the course with some extra help and attention.
2. Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act
According to this law, schools that receive federal funding cannot, by any means, discriminate against students who have learning disabilities.
They cannot deny admission to children with learning disabilities, neither can the administration show any kind of discrimination against them. In fact, these schools must remove any barriers to learning and ensure all children are taught equally.
3. Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
The Americans with Disabilities Act is a civil rights law that ensures those with disabilities do not face discrimination in any aspect of their lives.
Any platform that provides goods and services to the general public cannot, by any means, discriminate against those with disabilities. This includes schools, companies, organizations, and employers. If they do not abide by this law, they will face penalties.
In conclusion, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) ensures justice in special education, while Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act ensures 504 plans for K-12 students who are eligible. Lastly, the Americans with Disabilities Act ensures that no individual with a disability faces any discrimination within the workplace in terms of employment or learning opportunities.
