ADA Structure

The ADA consists of five titles that outline required access and accommodations:

  • Title I pertains to employers with 15 or more workers, labor organizations and employment agencies. It is enforced by the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.
  • Title II applies to public entities, such as state and local government, as well as public transportation systems. It is employed by the Department of Justice, Department of Transportation or other federal agencies, depending on the nature of the entity.
  • Title III applies to private sector places where people meet or where business is conducted, known as public accommodWations. It is enforced by the Department of Justice.
  • Title IV applies to providers of telecommunications and information technology services. It is enforced by the Federal Communications Commission.
  • Title V contains supplemental provisions that clarify that both states and Congress are covered by all provisions of the ADA. It also provides for recovery of legal fees, establishes a mechanism for technical assistance and instructis federal agencies required to implement the act. Additionally, Title V includes a provision prohibiting either (a) coercing or threatening or (b) retaliating against the disabled or those attempting to aid people with disabilities in asserting their rights under the ADA.

Please note: The ADA is undergoing continuous interpretation in the federal courts. Contact your DBTAC: ADA Center at (800) 949-4232 V/TTY for the most current information.