Americans with Disabilities Act
Employment Opportunity Enhancers

Protects applicants and employees in private sector and state and local government agencies with 15 or more employees.

Title II...Public Services

Protects applicants and employees in small state and local government agencies employing fewer than 15 workers. Requires that all state and local government services, programs, and activities be accessible. Targets accessibility in public transportation, such as city buses and commuter trains as well as to AMTRAK, operated by state and local government agencies.

Title III...Public Accommodations and Services Operated by Private Entities

Targets accessibility in public transportation, such as buses and vans, operated by private entities. Prohibits private businesses and service providers, such as restaurants and banks, from discriminating against, refusing service, or excluding individuals with disabilities. Addresses accessibility in existing and newly constructed/altered public accommodations and commercial facilities. Trade associations or performing artists that lease space for a conference or a performance at a hotel, convention center, or stadium become a public accommodation that must comply.

Public accommodations have to modify their policies and practices to allow the use of service animals.

Private organizations that offer examinations or courses for licensing, certification, or credentials are also required to provide appropriate accommodations or auxiliary aids such as extended time or sign language interpreters.

Title IV...Telecommunications

Requires telephone companies to offer 24-hour telecommunications local and long distance relay services to customers who have hearing and speech impairments. Addresses closed captioning of public service announcements.

Title V...Miscellaneous

Prohibits retaliation against individuals who exercise their rights under ADA.

Adapted from: Witt, Melanie Astaire. Job Seeking Strategies for People with Disabilities. Peterson's Guide. 1992.