Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504
What is the ADA? The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a federal law that prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities in all areas of public life and everyday activities.
What is Section 504? Section 504 is a federal law prohibiting discrimination against individuals in any program or activity receiving federal financial assistance. Section 504 ensures that individuals (both students and employees) with disabilities have the same opportunities for learning and success as their peers and colleagues.
What’s the relationship between Section 504 and ADA? Both laws prohibit discrimination on the basis of disability. Section 504 (1973) applies to entities that receive federal funds such as colleges and the ADA (1990) applies to virtually every entity except churches and private clubs. Schools that receive federal funds must comply with both Section 504 and the ADA.
Who is Covered by Section 504? Under Section 504, a person with a disability is defined as someone who has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities. Major life activities include, but are not limited to, walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing, learning, and caring for oneself. This definition is broad and includes a wide range of disabilities, both visible and invisible.
What Are Reasonable Accommodations? Reasonable accommodations are modifications or adjustments that allow individuals with disabilities to participate fully in school activities or perform their jobs. These accommodations may include things like ensuring physical accessibility to buildings and facilities or offering assistive technology devices or services.
SUNY Canton’s 504/ADA officer is:
Megan Riedl
315-386-7392
ADA@canton.edu