What does Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act address?

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act is significant because it was one of the first comprehensive civil rights laws that addressed the discrimination faced by individuals with disabilities. It ensures that individuals with disabilities have equal access to programs and activities that receive federal funding. This includes schools, which must provide accommodations and modifications to ensure that students with disabilities can participate fully in educational opportunities alongside their peers.

This law mandates that no qualified individual with a disability should be excluded from or denied the benefits of any program or activity receiving federal financial assistance, thereby promoting equal opportunities. By protecting the rights of individuals with disabilities, Section 504 plays a crucial role in fostering an inclusive environment across various sectors, particularly in education.