50 Years of the Rehabilitation Act: Then, Now and Next to Advancing Access and Equity

The Rehabilitation Act is an important law for families who have a child, youth or young adult with a disability. It safeguards their children’s rights, providing equal opportunities and support in education and beyond. Not only does it prohibit disability-based discrimination in federally funded programs, like schools but families should also know these key points: 

• • • No Discrimination: The Rehabilitation Act stops discrimination against people with disabilities in federally funded programs, ensuring equal access and treatment, especially for children.

• • • Section 504: This part of the law is crucial for families. It requires schools to give students with disabilities what they need to succeed. Schools are required to provide appropriate accommodations and modifications to ensure that children with disabilities have an equal opportunity to participate in educational programs and activities. This can include classroom accommodations and accessible facilities.

• • • IEP for Education: The Rehabilitation Act, along with IDEA, ensures students with disabilities get a free, suitable education through Individualized Education Plans (IEPs). IDEA provides specific guidelines for developing a student with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), while Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act can be used to supplement these services and protect against discrimination.

• • • Assistive Technology: The law covers tools to help students with disabilities in school, and schools must provide them if needed.

• • • Transition Support: It helps youth with disabilities prepare for adulthood, ensuring they can go to college or get a job without discrimination.

• • • Complaint Process: Families have recourse if they feel the law is not being followed, with steps to resolve issues through the school or the Office for Civil Rights (OCR).

RESOURCES

Podcast Featuring the 50-Year Celebration of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973

Music Video Featuring People with Disabilities in Their Work Environments: Work Makes the World Go Round https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-nS95-qlNw8

Section 504 Resources

Laws Impacting Individuals with Disabilities