Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act

Definition

The Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA) is a significant piece of legislation that expanded the protections of the original Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), enacted in 1990. It was signed into law in 2008 to clarify and broaden the definition of 'disability' and to ensure that individuals with disabilities have the same rights and opportunities as those without disabilities. The ADAAA aimed to reduce barriers in employment, education, and public services, enhancing the inclusivity of society for people with disabilities.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The ADAAA was signed into law on September 25, 2008, and it specifically emphasizes that the definition of disability should be interpreted broadly to ensure more people are covered.
2. One major change introduced by the ADAAA is the removal of the requirement that an individual’s disability must substantially limit a major life activity; instead, it recognizes that even minor limitations qualify for protection.
3. The law also includes specific provisions regarding episodic conditions, like asthma or diabetes, stating that these conditions can qualify as disabilities even if they are not always active.
4. Another important aspect is the emphasis on mitigating measures; the ADAAA states that individuals should not be denied protection based on the effects of medications or assistive devices that lessen their disability.
5. The ADAAA reinforces the importance of reasonable accommodations in workplaces and educational settings, ensuring equal access and opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

Review Questions

• How did the ADAAA change the interpretation of what constitutes a disability compared to the original ADA?
  • The ADAAA significantly broadened the interpretation of 'disability' by removing the requirement that an impairment must substantially limit a major life activity. This change allows more individuals to qualify for protections under the law. By emphasizing a more inclusive definition, the ADAAA ensures that a wider range of conditions and limitations are recognized as disabilities, thereby promoting greater equality and access for people with disabilities.
• Discuss how the ADAAA addresses episodic conditions and their implications for individuals seeking protection under the law.
  • The ADAAA specifically acknowledges episodic conditions, such as asthma and diabetes, by stating that these can qualify as disabilities even when they are not always active. This means that individuals who experience flare-ups or episodes can still receive protections under the law. The inclusion of episodic conditions illustrates a more comprehensive understanding of disabilities and ensures that individuals are protected regardless of how their condition manifests over time.
• Evaluate the overall impact of the ADAAA on employment practices and societal attitudes toward individuals with disabilities since its enactment.
  • The enactment of the ADAAA has had a profound impact on employment practices by requiring employers to provide reasonable accommodations and fostering a more inclusive workplace culture. This shift has encouraged businesses to recognize and value diversity, leading to improved hiring practices for individuals with disabilities. As society becomes more aware of these legal protections and their implications, attitudes toward disability are gradually changing, promoting acceptance and understanding while reducing stigma associated with disabilities in various aspects of life.

Related terms

Americans with Disabilities Act:

The original law enacted in 1990 that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in various areas such as employment, transportation, and public accommodations.

Disability: A physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, which is the key criterion for protection under the ADAAA.

Reasonable Accommodation: Adjustments or modifications provided by employers or institutions to enable individuals with disabilities to participate fully in employment or educational opportunities.