Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act

Definition

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act is a civil rights law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in programs and activities receiving federal financial assistance. This law ensures that people with disabilities have equal access to education, employment, and various services, promoting inclusion and protecting their rights.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Section 504 was enacted in 1973 as part of the Rehabilitation Act and was one of the first laws to protect the rights of individuals with disabilities.
2. Under Section 504, schools and educational institutions must provide accommodations for students with disabilities to ensure equal access to education.
3. The law applies not only to educational institutions but also to any organization that receives federal funding, including hospitals and social service agencies.
4. Section 504 paved the way for subsequent disability rights legislation, including the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990.
5. Individuals who believe they have been discriminated against under Section 504 can file complaints with the appropriate federal agency or pursue legal action.

Review Questions

• How does Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act influence educational institutions in their treatment of students with disabilities?
  • Section 504 requires educational institutions that receive federal funding to provide equal access and reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities. This means schools must modify policies, practices, and facilities to support these students. For example, they might offer specialized tutoring or assistive technology to ensure students can participate fully in their education.
• Discuss the impact of Section 504 on employment practices for individuals with disabilities.
  • Section 504 affects employment practices by requiring employers who receive federal funding to ensure that individuals with disabilities are not discriminated against in hiring, promotion, or other employment-related decisions. Employers must also provide reasonable accommodations that allow employees to perform their job duties effectively. This has significantly improved workplace inclusion for people with disabilities.
• Evaluate the role of Section 504 in shaping modern disability rights legislation and its broader implications on societal attitudes towards disability.
  • Section 504 laid the groundwork for modern disability rights legislation by establishing a legal framework that prohibits discrimination based on disability. Its influence is evident in the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which expanded protections beyond federally funded programs. This shift has helped change societal attitudes towards disability, promoting greater awareness, acceptance, and inclusivity across various sectors, from education to employment and public services.

Related terms

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): A comprehensive civil rights law that prohibits discrimination based on disability in various areas, including employment, public accommodations, and transportation.

Reasonable Accommodation: Adjustments or modifications made by employers or service providers to enable individuals with disabilities to participate fully in programs or workplaces.

Disability Rights Movement: A social movement advocating for the rights and inclusion of people with disabilities in all aspects of society, focusing on accessibility, equality, and anti-discrimination legislation.