Complying With New ADA Standards For Accessibility

The U.S. Department of Justice adopted the 2010 American with Disabilities Act (ADA) Standards for Accessible Design on Sept. 15, 2010. During an initial transition period, covered public and private entities starting new construction or performing alterations had the option of following either the old 1991 Standards for Accessible Design or the new 2010 Standards. But as of March 15, 2012, all construction projects and modifications must comply with the 2010 standards.

A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE ADA

The ADA was signed into law on July 26, 1990. The law defines a disability as a "physical or mental impairment that substantively limits a major life activity" and promotes equal treatment for all Americans with disabilities through substantive provisions governing, among other things, employment (Title I), public services (Title II) and public accommodations (Title III).