Which federal legislation provides comprehensive rights for individuals with disabilities?

• A. Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
• B. American with Disabilities Act
• C. Rehabilitation Act of 1973
• D. Section 504

Answer: (B)

The American with Disabilities Act (ADA) is the federal legislation that provides comprehensive rights for individuals with disabilities. Enacted in 1990, the ADA aims to eliminate discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including jobs, schools, transportation, and all public and private places that are open to the general public. It establishes strong protections to ensure that individuals with disabilities have the same rights and opportunities as everyone else.

In contrast, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is specifically focused on ensuring that students with disabilities receive a free appropriate public education tailored to their individual needs, making it more education-centric rather than comprehensive across all aspects of life. The Rehabilitation Act of 1973, while significant, primarily addresses employment discrimination and access to federal programs but does not cover the broader set of rights that the ADA does. Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act prohibits discrimination in programs receiving federal financial assistance and provides civil rights protections, but it is also not as extensive as the protections laid out in the ADA.

Thus, while all the other options provide important rights and protections, the ADA is the most comprehensive in addressing the rights of individuals with disabilities across various domains of public life.