This summer marks the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, a landmark law that has completely reshaped the rights and accommodations people with disabilities are awarded in this country.
The ADA provides comprehensive civil rights protection for millions of people in this country, as more than one in four adults in America has a disability. But the future of ADA funding is hanging in the balance.
Read “Understanding the Americans with Disabilities Act” here.
The White House is proposing to cut three grant funds for disability rights centers and dramatically trim down on funding for another. These disability rights centers help people with disabilities secure government-funded services, provide legal and advocacy services to ensure their rights are being protected, and aid people in accessing Medicaid benefits.
According to reports, the centers may lose more than 60 percent of their federal funding. These cuts could seriously hinder the independence and quality of life for people with disabilities.
These proposed cuts come after the President signed a sweeping budget law, which includes nearly $1 trillion in changes to Medicaid. Experts predict 15 million people will lose their health insurance due to these changes.
In the spring, the White House withdrew 11 pieces of ADA guidance for businesses and hospitals, including instructions on accessible parking and fitting rooms, how to help customers at gas stations, and how to support patients with disabilities during COVID bans.
These are just some of the ways the Trump administration has changed disability rights in this country.
The attorneys at Kennedy Hunt P.C. are experts in the ADA and champions for people with disabilities. If you or someone you know has been a victim of discrimination, the skilled attorneys at Kennedy Hunt, P.C. can help. Fill out a questionnaire so we can understand your claim.