How to Report Violations of the Americans With Disabilities Act

People who suffer from mental or physical disabilities are faced with discrimination on a daily basis. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was created to eliminate discrimination and barriers affecting the lives of disabled individuals. Reporting a violation of the ADA can be confusing if you are unfamiliar with the act. Follow these steps to report violations to the correct authorities.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Understand the American with Disabilities Act. Learn how to identify violations. Educate yourself on the different titles associated with the act and how they are designed to provide equal opportunity.
2. File a complaint with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). Call the EEOC at [phone].
3. Wait for a response. After reviewing the claim the EEOC should send you a "right to sue" letter.
4. Make a complaint to the Department of Justice. The Department of Justice covers violations of state or local governments and violations of public access.
5. Report violations by Public Transportation. File a complaint with the Federal Transit Authority.
6. Speak to a lawyer. Discuss the situation with a lawyer and determine if you want to sue for a violation of your civil rights.

Tips & Warnings

• The ADA allows a discriminated individual to sue under three different titles. Title I covers employment. Title II covers state and local government as well as public transportation. Title III covers public access.
• Neither Title II or III require you to file a violation with a federal agency first or wait to receive a "right to sue" letter before taking civil action.
• The Rehabilitation Act of 1973 covers disabled individuals in the executive branch of the Federal government.
• Non employment based discrimination in the air is covered by the Air Carrier Access Act.
• Forms for reporting a Title II or III complaint can be printed from the ADA home page at the Department of Justice.
• No matter which Federal Agency you contact to report violations it must be done within 180 days of when the incident occurred.
• Individuals can not be discriminated against because of a relationship with a disabled person or due to an association with an organization that supports disabled individuals.