Rehabilitation Act of 1973

1973

29 U.S.C. § 701 et seq.

📌 Link to the Text of the Act

Read the statute (29 U.S.C. § 701 et seq.)

📌 Why It Was Done

The Act was passed to prohibit discrimination on the basis of disability in programs conducted by federal agencies, programs receiving federal funding, and federal employment. It was the first major U.S. disability rights law.

📌 Pre-existing Law or Constitutional Rights

Before 1973, no comprehensive protections existed for people with disabilities. The Act expanded civil rights principles to this community, setting the stage for the ADA (1990).

📌 Overreach or Proper Role?

Supporters view it as a vital step in disability rights. Critics argue compliance has been costly for federal contractors and institutions.

📌 Who or What It Controls

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Federal agencies (must ensure nondiscrimination in programs)
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Recipients of federal financial assistance (schools, hospitals, nonprofits)
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Federal contractors and subcontractors (affirmative action obligations)

📌 Key Sections / Citations

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Section 501 (29 U.S.C. § 791): Federal employment nondiscrimination
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Section 503 (29 U.S.C. § 793): Federal contractor nondiscrimination
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Section 504 (29 U.S.C. § 794): Nondiscrimination in federally funded programs
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Section 508 (29 U.S.C. § 794d): Technology accessibility requirements

📌 Recent Changes or Live Controversies

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Section 508 updated to cover digital accessibility for federal websites and technology
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Litigation continues over the scope of Section 504 obligations for schools and universities
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Remains a critical foundation alongside the ADA for disability rights enforcement