ADA Laws & Rules for Accessibility and Anti-Discrimination
FederalThis article has not yet been reviewed by an attorney.
In plain English
The ADA is a federal law that stops discrimination against people with disabilities in public life, jobs, and services. It includes rules for making buildings accessible and requires governments and businesses to follow anti-discrimination rules. You can find guides and updates about the law on ADA.gov.
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a federal law that protects people with disabilities from discrimination. It covers areas like jobs, public services, and buildings. Two main parts of the ADA are the law itself (the ADA statute) and rules made by the Department of Justice (DOJ) to explain how to follow the law.
The ADA Standards for Accessible Design set requirements for physical spaces to be usable by people with disabilities. This includes things like ramps, door widths, and accessible restrooms. State and local governments, businesses, and nonprofits must follow these standards if they receive public funds or serve the public.
The DOJ plans to update ADA rules in Fall 2024. These changes may affect how laws are applied to workplaces, public spaces, and services. The Unified Agenda lists these planned updates. Guides on ADA.gov help governments, small businesses, and people with disabilities understand their rights and responsibilities.
If you believe your rights under the ADA are being violated, contact the DOJ or a disability rights attorney. The law applies to all states, including Washington, but specific situations may vary, a lawyer can advise.
This is a summary only — not legal advice. Consult a disability rights attorney for guidance on your specific situation.
Sources
- ADA.gov — Technical Assistanceretrieved 2026-05-31
Last reviewed: May 31, 2026