Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act Questions and Answers
What is the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act?
The Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA) is a law that was passed in 2008. It amends the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 to make sure that people with diabetes and many other conditions are protected by these laws
How does the ADAAA affect people with diabetes?
The ADAAA makes it clear that Congress intends for people with conditions such as diabetes to be covered by the law and protected from discrimination on the basis of their diabetes. The ADAAA lists endocrine function as an example of a major life activity covered by the law. Since nearly everyone with diabetes is substantially limited in their endocrine system functioning, nearly everyone with diabetes will be eligible for ADAAA protection.
Does the ADAAA change anything other than who is covered by the law?
No. All other provisions of the ADA – including the requirement for an employee to prove that the discrimination was because of diabetes and the employer's obligation to provide reasonable accommodations – remain the same.
Does ADAAA affect the rights of people with diabetes outside of the workplace?
Yes. The revised definition of disability applies everywhere that federal disability laws apply including day care centers, schools, hotels, restaurants, concert venues, correctional institutions, and public transportation.