University of Texas at El Paso
Union East
   
Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA)    

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which was modeled after Section 504, was signed into law in July, 1990 but most provisions did not take effect until January 26, 1992 (i.e. Title II-Governmental Services; Title III-Public Accommodations; Title I-Employment Provisions).  ADA augments Section 504 legislation and extends it to the general public, not only educational institutions. In Title II, the ADA specifies that: 
   

Persons with disabilities are entitled to access programs, services, and activities in the most integrated setting feasible. The nature of a college’s programs, services, and activities would very rarely, if ever, call for segregation of persons with disabilities. Programs designed specifically for persons with disabilities are permissible, but cannot preempt their right to participate – with full accommodation – in any regular activity.  Students must be able to meet the technical and academic qualifications for entry into the school, program, or activity in order to be considered otherwise qualified.