latest for Advocacy & Legislation
Read time: 4 minutes On Jan. 23, Texas and eight other states, Alaska, Florida, Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana, Missouri, Montana and South Dakota, renewed a legal challenge that disability advocates say…
What Is the SAVE Act? The Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act is a federal election bill that would require documentary proof of U.S. citizenship just to register to vote…
By Abiodun Ojo A Minneapolis Encounter That Exposed a Larger Failure In January, a Minnesota woman with autism and a traumatic brain injury described being forcibly removed from her car…
A federal rule meant to expand digital access for people with disabilities is having an unintended effect: local governments are quietly removing documents from public websites. In 2024, the U.S.…
When the enhanced Affordable Care Act tax credits expired at the start of the year, the change was not subtle. For millions of Americans, monthly health insurance premiums rose sharply,…
The U.S. Department of Education has laid off most of its special education staff, alarming advocates who warn the cuts could jeopardize the rights of millions of children protected under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
| Year | Event / Milestone | Type | Jurisdiction | Disability Category | Why It Matters (1–2 lines) | Suggested Sources (short) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1817 | American School for the Deaf founded (Hartford) | Milestone/Education | U.S. State/CT | Sensory | First permanent school for the Deaf in the U.S.; advances Deaf education and ASL community. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1864 | Gallaudet University chartered | Milestone/Education | U.S. Federal/DC | Sensory | First university for the Deaf; federal charter reflects national commitment to accessible higher education. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1917 | Smith‑Hughes Act (vocational education roots) | Law/Policy | U.S. Federal | Veterans | Lays groundwork for vocational rehab used by returning service members. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1918 | Soldier’s Rehabilitation Act | Law | U.S. Federal | Veterans | Begins federal vocational rehabilitation for disabled veterans. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1920 | Smith‑Fess Act (Civilian Vocational Rehabilitation Act) | Law | U.S. Federal | Cross-cutting | Creates civilian VR; foundation for modern state‑federal VR system across disability types. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1935 | Social Security Act (SSDI/SSI roots later developed) | Law | U.S. Federal | Cross-cutting | Establishes social insurance; disability programs grow over subsequent decades. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1943 | Autism described by Leo Kanner (English-language literature) | Milestone/Medical | International | Neurodivergent | Catalyzes recognition of autism in clinical contexts; later diversifies to spectrum model. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1944 | Servicemen’s Readjustment Act (GI Bill) | Law | U.S. Federal | Veterans | Education, training, and housing supports benefit disabled veterans among others. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1945 | President’s Committee on Employment of the Physically Handicapped (predecessor to ODEP) | Policy/Program | U.S. Federal | Physical | Raised national visibility on employment barriers; precursor to modern disability employment policy. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1946 | National Mental Health Act | Law | U.S. Federal | Mental Health | Establishes NIMH; expands research and services for mental health conditions. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1958 | VA Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment (VR&E) enhancements | Policy | U.S. Federal | Veterans | Expands rehab/placement services for service‑connected disabilities. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1963 | Community Mental Health Centers Act | Law/Policy | U.S. Federal | Mental Health | Funds community-based treatment; initiates deinstitutionalization era. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1965 | Medicare & Medicaid (Title XVIII & XIX) | Law | U.S. Federal | Cross-cutting | Key coverage for many people with disabilities; Medicaid waivers later support HCBS. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1965 | Vocational Rehabilitation Act Amendments (communication aids) | Law/Policy | U.S. Federal | Sensory | Expanded services and technology for people with sensory disabilities. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1965 | ESEA—Title I and special education seeds | Law/Policy | U.S. Federal | Neurodivergent | Boosts funding for disadvantaged students; opens pathways for special education supports. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1968 | Architectural Barriers Act (ABA) | Law | U.S. Federal | Physical | First federal law requiring accessible design in federally funded buildings—foundation for later accessibility standards. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1968 | Architectural Barriers Act (ABA) | Law | U.S. Federal | Sensory | Accessible design also supports orientation/wayfinding and assistive listening system accommodation in federal facilities. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1970 | Urban Mass Transportation Act Amendments (accessibility provisions) | Law | U.S. Federal | Physical | Seeded requirements and grants for accessible public transit vehicles and stations. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1973 | Rehabilitation Act (incl. §501, §503, §504, §508) | Law/Regulation | U.S. Federal | Cross-cutting | Foundational anti‑discrimination and accessibility requirements in federal programs, contracting, employment, and ICT. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1973 | Rehabilitation Act §504 | Law/Regulation | U.S. Federal | Physical | Prohibits disability-based discrimination in federally funded programs; cornerstone for accessibility in education, healthcare, and services. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1973 | Rehabilitation Act §504 | Law/Regulation | U.S. Federal | Sensory | Catalyzes captioning, interpreters, auxiliary aids, and program accessibility in federally funded entities. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1975 | Education for All Handicapped Children Act (later IDEA) | Law | U.S. Federal | Cross-cutting | Guarantees FAPE and IEP rights; bedrock for special education across categories. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1975 | Education for All Handicapped Children Act (EHA) | Law | U.S. Federal | Physical | Guarantees FAPE and IEPs; later renamed IDEA, establishing educational rights for students with disabilities. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1975 | EHA (later IDEA) guarantees FAPE/IEP | Law | U.S. Federal | Neurodivergent | Ensures educational rights and individualized services for students with ADHD, autism, learning disabilities. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1977 | Section 504 Sit-ins (HEW regulations issued) | Milestone/Regulatory | U.S. Federal | Physical | Landmark protests led to issuance of §504 regulations; catalyzed enforcement of accessibility and anti-discrimination. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1978 | Civil Rights of Institutionalized Persons Act (CRIPA) | Law | U.S. Federal | Mental Health | Authorizes DOJ to address rights violations in public institutions. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1979 | Section 508 created (later strengthened) | Law/Policy | U.S. Federal | Sensory | Establishes accessible federal electronic/IT; later ‘Refresh’ aligns to WCAG for screen reader, captioning, etc. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1980 | Veterans’ Rehabilitation and Education Amendments | Law | U.S. Federal | Veterans | Modernizes vocational rehabilitation for veterans; independent living services. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1982 | Youngberg v. Romeo | Court Case | U.S. Supreme Court | Physical | Established rights to reasonable safety and freedom from undue restraint in institutions. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1982 | Telecommunications for the Deaf, Inc. advocacy milestones (TTY relay expansion) | Policy/Milestone | U.S. | Sensory | National build-out of TTY/relay services enhances equal access to telephony. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1984 | ICD-9-CM updates (mobility impairments coding expansion) | Policy/Standard | U.S./International | Physical | Improved clinical recognition and tracking of mobility-related disabilities in health data. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1986 | Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) | Law/Regulation | U.S. Federal | Cross-cutting | Prohibits discrimination in air travel; wheelchair assistance, seating, and service animal policies. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1988 | Fair Housing Amendments Act (FHAA) | Law | U.S. Federal | Cross-cutting | Adds disability protections in housing—reasonable modifications and accessible design requirements. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1988 | Fair Housing Amendments Act (FHAA) | Law | U.S. Federal | Physical | Adds disability protections in housing; mandates reasonable accommodations and accessible design in multifamily housing. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1988 | Caption Decoder Circuitry Act | Law | U.S. Federal | Sensory | Requires decoder circuitry in televisions, accelerating closed captioning availability. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1988 | Department of Veterans Affairs elevated to cabinet level | Policy/Milestone | U.S. Federal | Veterans | Signals expanded federal commitment and accountability to veterans, including disabled veterans. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1990 | Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) | Law | U.S. Federal | Cross-cutting | Comprehensive civil rights protections across employment, government services, public accommodations, telecom. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1990 | Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Titles I–IV | Law | U.S. Federal | Physical | Comprehensive civil rights law covering employment, state/local services, public accommodations, and telecom relay for many disabilities. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1990 | ADA Title IV (Telecommunications Relay Services) | Law | U.S. Federal | Sensory | Mandates nationwide TRS; expands communication access for Deaf/Hard of Hearing and speech disabilities. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1990 | ADA Titles I–III (employment, public services, public accommodations) | Law | U.S. Federal | Neurodivergent | Protects against discrimination; reasonable accommodations for ADHD, autism, learning disabilities, etc. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1990 | IDEA (renamed) emphasizes transition services | Law | U.S. Federal | Neurodivergent | Focus on transition planning, autism as distinct category recognized in many states by 1990s. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1990 | ADA enacted (applies to many veteran disability contexts) | Law | U.S. Federal | Veterans | Ensures employment and public access protections for veterans with disabilities outside VA settings. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1991 | ADA Accessibility Guidelines (ADAAG) | Regulation/Standard | U.S. Federal | Physical | Technical specifications for accessible design, shaping built environment compliance. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1996 | Telecommunications Act §255 | Law/Regulation | U.S. Federal | Sensory | Requires telecom equipment/services to be accessible and usable when readily achievable. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1996 | Mental Health Parity Act (MHPA) | Law | U.S. Federal | Mental Health | Begins parity between mental health and medical/surgical benefits (annual/lifetime limits). | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1999 | Olmstead v. L.C. | Court Case | U.S. Supreme Court | Cross-cutting | Community integration mandate—applies across disability types; accelerates HCBS and deinstitutionalization. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1999 | Olmstead v. L.C. | Court Case | U.S. Supreme Court | Physical | Requires services in the most integrated setting appropriate; accelerates community-based alternatives to institutionalization. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1999 | Olmstead v. L.C. | Court Case | U.S. Supreme Court | Neurodivergent | Supports community-based services for people with developmental disabilities and mental health conditions. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1999 | Olmstead v. L.C. | Court Case | U.S. Supreme Court | Mental Health | Recognizes unjustified segregation as discrimination; supports community integration. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2000 | Morse v. Frederick? (not sensory) | Court Case | U.S. | Sensory | Placeholder removed | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2001 | No Child Left Behind (NCLB) | Law/Policy | U.S. Federal | Neurodivergent | Accountability systems impact special education identification, accommodations, and inclusion metrics. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2002 | Help America Vote Act (HAVA) | Law | U.S. Federal | Sensory | Requires accessible voting systems including for blind/low-vision voters; improves polling place access. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2003 | President’s New Freedom Commission on Mental Health | Policy/Report | U.S. Federal | Mental Health | Blueprint for transforming mental health care; emphasizes recovery and person-centered services. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2004 | IDEA Reauthorization | Law | U.S. Federal | Neurodivergent | Aligns with NCLB; emphasizes research-based interventions (RTI) and procedural safeguards. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2008 | ADA Amendments Act (ADAAA) | Law | U.S. Federal | Cross-cutting | Expands and clarifies disability definition; strengthens civil rights coverage. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2008 | ADA Amendments Act (ADAAA) | Law | U.S. Federal | Physical | Broadens definition of disability; clarifies major life activities including walking and bodily functions. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2008 | ADAAA expands coverage | Law | U.S. Federal | Neurodivergent | Clarifies major life activities like learning, concentrating, brain function; broader protections. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2008 | Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MHPAEA) | Law | U.S. Federal | Mental Health | Requires parity for financial requirements and treatment limitations vs. medical/surgical benefits. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2008 | Post‑9/11 GI Bill | Law/Policy | U.S. Federal | Veterans | Expanded education benefits for newer cohorts, including those with service‑connected disabilities. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2010 | CVAA (Accessibility of advanced communications/video) | Law/Regulation | U.S. Federal | Cross-cutting | Modernizes communications/video accessibility affecting multiple disability groups. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2010 | 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design | Regulation/Standard | U.S. Federal | Physical | Updated design standards for buildings and facilities; harmonizes with other codes. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2010 | 21st Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act (CVAA) | Law/Regulation | U.S. Federal | Sensory | Strengthens accessibility of advanced communications and video; requires captions for online video and accessible user interfaces. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2010 | Affordable Care Act (ACA) – Essential Health Benefits & §1557 | Law/Policy | U.S. Federal | Mental Health | Expands coverage for mental health/substance use; nondiscrimination provisions apply to disability. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2010 | Caregivers and Veterans Omnibus Health Services Act | Law | U.S. Federal | Veterans | Support services for family caregivers of veterans with serious disabilities. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2014 | ABLE Act | Law | U.S. Federal | Cross-cutting | Creates tax‑advantaged savings for disability‑related expenses without losing means‑tested benefits (eligibility limits apply). | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2014 | WIOA (VR, supported employment, youth transition) | Law/Policy | U.S. Federal | Cross-cutting | Reforms state‑federal VR; emphasizes competitive integrated employment. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2014 | Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) §511 | Law/Policy | U.S. Federal | Physical | Limits subminimum wages and expands pre-employment transition services for youth with disabilities. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2014 | Autism CARES Act (reauthorization) | Law | U.S. Federal | Neurodivergent | Funds research, surveillance, and services coordination for autism spectrum disorder. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2014 | WIOA—Supported Employment/VR changes | Law/Policy | U.S. Federal | Mental Health | Enhances supported employment and youth transition services relevant to serious mental illness. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2014 | Veterans Access, Choice, and Accountability Act | Law | U.S. Federal | Veterans | Addresses access issues; includes care options outside VA, benefiting disabled veterans. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2015 | DOT rules on airport kiosk/website accessibility | Regulation | U.S. Federal | Sensory | Ensures accessible self-service kiosks and airline websites for blind/low-vision travelers. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2015 | Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) | Law/Policy | U.S. Federal | Neurodivergent | Shifts accountability and supports inclusive education; alternate assessments guidance. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2016 | 21st Century Cures Act – mental health reforms | Law | U.S. Federal | Mental Health | Creates Assistant Secretary for Mental Health; strengthens parity enforcement, suicide prevention. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2017 | Section 508 ‘Refresh’ (ICT accessibility) | Regulation/Standard | U.S. Federal | Physical | Aligns ICT accessibility with WCAG 2.0 AA; stronger obligations for federal technology accessibility. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2017 | Section 508 ‘Refresh’ (ICT accessibility) | Regulation/Standard | U.S. Federal | Sensory | Aligns with WCAG 2.0 AA across federal digital content and software. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2018 | VA MISSION Act | Law | U.S. Federal | Veterans | Consolidates community care programs; expands caregiver program to additional eras. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2020 | Air Carrier Access Act – wheelchair damage tracking (DOT rule changes) | Regulation/Policy | U.S. Federal | Physical | Airlines must report mishandled wheelchairs/scooters; transparency prompts service improvements. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2020 | CVAA implementation milestones (IP captions/video description expansion) | Regulation/Policy | U.S. Federal | Sensory | Broader requirements for captions and audio description across platforms and devices. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2020 | CDC updates autism prevalence estimates | Milestone/Data | U.S. Federal | Neurodivergent | Improves surveillance and informs service planning; recognition of broader neurodiversity. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2020 | Telehealth expansion during COVID‑19 emergency | Policy | U.S. Federal/States | Mental Health | Rapid access to remote mental health services; many flexibilities extended post‑emergency. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2021 | Department of Education guidance on restraint/seclusion | Policy/Guidance | U.S. Federal | Neurodivergent | Discourages harmful discipline; promotes positive behavioral supports in schools. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2022 | Federal telehealth expansions for behavioral therapies (post‑COVID policy transitions) | Policy | U.S. Federal | Neurodivergent | Sustained access to remote evaluation/intervention; varies by program and state. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2022 | PACT Act (toxic exposures) | Law | U.S. Federal | Veterans | Presumptive conditions and expanded benefits for veterans exposed to burn pits and other toxins. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2024 | ADA Title II Web/Mobile rule; Section 1557 & §504 modernized rules (HHS/DOJ) | Regulation | U.S. Federal | Cross-cutting | Clarifies digital accessibility and nondiscrimination in healthcare/education programs receiving federal funds. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2024 | ADA Title II Web & Mobile Accessibility Rule (DOJ) | Regulation | U.S. Federal | Physical | Sets technical web/mobile accessibility requirements for state/local governments; clarifies obligations for digital services. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2024 | WCAG 2.2 published (reference standard; adoption varies) | Standard | International/W3C | Sensory | Improves web usability for low-vision and cognitive users; informs U.S. procurement/compliance baselines. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2024 | State insurance mandates for autism services—mature coverage landscape | Policy Trend | U.S. States | Neurodivergent | All 50 states + DC have autism insurance mandates; enhances access to ABA/related services (scope varies). | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2024 | MHPAEA rulemaking proposals/final rules (tri‑agency) | Regulation | U.S. Federal | Mental Health | Tightens parity compliance (NQTL analyses, network adequacy); strengthens enforcement framework. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| Year | Event / Milestone | Type | Jurisdiction | Disability Category | Why It Matters (1–2 lines) | Suggested Sources (short) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1920 | Smith‑Fess Act (Civilian Vocational Rehabilitation Act) | Law | U.S. Federal | Cross-cutting | Creates civilian VR; foundation for modern state‑federal VR system across disability types. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1935 | Social Security Act (SSDI/SSI roots later developed) | Law | U.S. Federal | Cross-cutting | Establishes social insurance; disability programs grow over subsequent decades. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1965 | Medicare & Medicaid (Title XVIII & XIX) | Law | U.S. Federal | Cross-cutting | Key coverage for many people with disabilities; Medicaid waivers later support HCBS. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1973 | Rehabilitation Act (incl. §501, §503, §504, §508) | Law/Regulation | U.S. Federal | Cross-cutting | Foundational anti‑discrimination and accessibility requirements in federal programs, contracting, employment, and ICT. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1975 | Education for All Handicapped Children Act (later IDEA) | Law | U.S. Federal | Cross-cutting | Guarantees FAPE and IEP rights; bedrock for special education across categories. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1986 | Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) | Law/Regulation | U.S. Federal | Cross-cutting | Prohibits discrimination in air travel; wheelchair assistance, seating, and service animal policies. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1988 | Fair Housing Amendments Act (FHAA) | Law | U.S. Federal | Cross-cutting | Adds disability protections in housing—reasonable modifications and accessible design requirements. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1990 | Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) | Law | U.S. Federal | Cross-cutting | Comprehensive civil rights protections across employment, government services, public accommodations, telecom. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1999 | Olmstead v. L.C. | Court Case | U.S. Supreme Court | Cross-cutting | Community integration mandate—applies across disability types; accelerates HCBS and deinstitutionalization. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2008 | ADA Amendments Act (ADAAA) | Law | U.S. Federal | Cross-cutting | Expands and clarifies disability definition; strengthens civil rights coverage. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2010 | CVAA (Accessibility of advanced communications/video) | Law/Regulation | U.S. Federal | Cross-cutting | Modernizes communications/video accessibility affecting multiple disability groups. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2014 | ABLE Act | Law | U.S. Federal | Cross-cutting | Creates tax‑advantaged savings for disability‑related expenses without losing means‑tested benefits (eligibility limits apply). | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2014 | WIOA (VR, supported employment, youth transition) | Law/Policy | U.S. Federal | Cross-cutting | Reforms state‑federal VR; emphasizes competitive integrated employment. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2024 | ADA Title II Web/Mobile rule; Section 1557 & §504 modernized rules (HHS/DOJ) | Regulation | U.S. Federal | Cross-cutting | Clarifies digital accessibility and nondiscrimination in healthcare/education programs receiving federal funds. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| Year | Event / Milestone | Type | Jurisdiction | Disability Category | Why It Matters (1–2 lines) | Suggested Sources (short) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1917 | Smith‑Hughes Act (vocational education roots) | Law/Policy | U.S. Federal | Veterans | Lays groundwork for vocational rehab used by returning service members. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1918 | Soldier’s Rehabilitation Act | Law | U.S. Federal | Veterans | Begins federal vocational rehabilitation for disabled veterans. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1944 | Servicemen’s Readjustment Act (GI Bill) | Law | U.S. Federal | Veterans | Education, training, and housing supports benefit disabled veterans among others. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1958 | VA Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment (VR&E) enhancements | Policy | U.S. Federal | Veterans | Expands rehab/placement services for service‑connected disabilities. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1980 | Veterans’ Rehabilitation and Education Amendments | Law | U.S. Federal | Veterans | Modernizes vocational rehabilitation for veterans; independent living services. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1988 | Department of Veterans Affairs elevated to cabinet level | Policy/Milestone | U.S. Federal | Veterans | Signals expanded federal commitment and accountability to veterans, including disabled veterans. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1990 | ADA enacted (applies to many veteran disability contexts) | Law | U.S. Federal | Veterans | Ensures employment and public access protections for veterans with disabilities outside VA settings. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2008 | Post‑9/11 GI Bill | Law/Policy | U.S. Federal | Veterans | Expanded education benefits for newer cohorts, including those with service‑connected disabilities. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2010 | Caregivers and Veterans Omnibus Health Services Act | Law | U.S. Federal | Veterans | Support services for family caregivers of veterans with serious disabilities. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2014 | Veterans Access, Choice, and Accountability Act | Law | U.S. Federal | Veterans | Addresses access issues; includes care options outside VA, benefiting disabled veterans. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2018 | VA MISSION Act | Law | U.S. Federal | Veterans | Consolidates community care programs; expands caregiver program to additional eras. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2022 | PACT Act (toxic exposures) | Law | U.S. Federal | Veterans | Presumptive conditions and expanded benefits for veterans exposed to burn pits and other toxins. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| Year | Event / Milestone | Type | Jurisdiction | Disability Category | Why It Matters (1–2 lines) | Suggested Sources (short) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1946 | National Mental Health Act | Law | U.S. Federal | Mental Health | Establishes NIMH; expands research and services for mental health conditions. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1963 | Community Mental Health Centers Act | Law/Policy | U.S. Federal | Mental Health | Funds community-based treatment; initiates deinstitutionalization era. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1978 | Civil Rights of Institutionalized Persons Act (CRIPA) | Law | U.S. Federal | Mental Health | Authorizes DOJ to address rights violations in public institutions. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1996 | Mental Health Parity Act (MHPA) | Law | U.S. Federal | Mental Health | Begins parity between mental health and medical/surgical benefits (annual/lifetime limits). | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1999 | Olmstead v. L.C. | Court Case | U.S. Supreme Court | Mental Health | Recognizes unjustified segregation as discrimination; supports community integration. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2003 | President’s New Freedom Commission on Mental Health | Policy/Report | U.S. Federal | Mental Health | Blueprint for transforming mental health care; emphasizes recovery and person-centered services. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2008 | Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MHPAEA) | Law | U.S. Federal | Mental Health | Requires parity for financial requirements and treatment limitations vs. medical/surgical benefits. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2010 | Affordable Care Act (ACA) – Essential Health Benefits & §1557 | Law/Policy | U.S. Federal | Mental Health | Expands coverage for mental health/substance use; nondiscrimination provisions apply to disability. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2014 | WIOA—Supported Employment/VR changes | Law/Policy | U.S. Federal | Mental Health | Enhances supported employment and youth transition services relevant to serious mental illness. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2016 | 21st Century Cures Act – mental health reforms | Law | U.S. Federal | Mental Health | Creates Assistant Secretary for Mental Health; strengthens parity enforcement, suicide prevention. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2020 | Telehealth expansion during COVID‑19 emergency | Policy | U.S. Federal/States | Mental Health | Rapid access to remote mental health services; many flexibilities extended post‑emergency. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2024 | MHPAEA rulemaking proposals/final rules (tri‑agency) | Regulation | U.S. Federal | Mental Health | Tightens parity compliance (NQTL analyses, network adequacy); strengthens enforcement framework. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| Year | Event / Milestone | Type | Jurisdiction | Disability Category | Why It Matters (1–2 lines) | Suggested Sources (short) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1943 | Autism described by Leo Kanner (English-language literature) | Milestone/Medical | International | Neurodivergent | Catalyzes recognition of autism in clinical contexts; later diversifies to spectrum model. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1965 | ESEA—Title I and special education seeds | Law/Policy | U.S. Federal | Neurodivergent | Boosts funding for disadvantaged students; opens pathways for special education supports. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1975 | EHA (later IDEA) guarantees FAPE/IEP | Law | U.S. Federal | Neurodivergent | Ensures educational rights and individualized services for students with ADHD, autism, learning disabilities. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1990 | IDEA (renamed) emphasizes transition services | Law | U.S. Federal | Neurodivergent | Focus on transition planning, autism as distinct category recognized in many states by 1990s. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1990 | ADA Titles I–III (employment, public services, public accommodations) | Law | U.S. Federal | Neurodivergent | Protects against discrimination; reasonable accommodations for ADHD, autism, learning disabilities, etc. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1999 | Olmstead v. L.C. | Court Case | U.S. Supreme Court | Neurodivergent | Supports community-based services for people with developmental disabilities and mental health conditions. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2001 | No Child Left Behind (NCLB) | Law/Policy | U.S. Federal | Neurodivergent | Accountability systems impact special education identification, accommodations, and inclusion metrics. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2004 | IDEA Reauthorization | Law | U.S. Federal | Neurodivergent | Aligns with NCLB; emphasizes research-based interventions (RTI) and procedural safeguards. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2008 | ADAAA expands coverage | Law | U.S. Federal | Neurodivergent | Clarifies major life activities like learning, concentrating, brain function; broader protections. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2014 | Autism CARES Act (reauthorization) | Law | U.S. Federal | Neurodivergent | Funds research, surveillance, and services coordination for autism spectrum disorder. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2015 | Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) | Law/Policy | U.S. Federal | Neurodivergent | Shifts accountability and supports inclusive education; alternate assessments guidance. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2020 | CDC updates autism prevalence estimates | Milestone/Data | U.S. Federal | Neurodivergent | Improves surveillance and informs service planning; recognition of broader neurodiversity. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2021 | Department of Education guidance on restraint/seclusion | Policy/Guidance | U.S. Federal | Neurodivergent | Discourages harmful discipline; promotes positive behavioral supports in schools. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2022 | Federal telehealth expansions for behavioral therapies (post‑COVID policy transitions) | Policy | U.S. Federal | Neurodivergent | Sustained access to remote evaluation/intervention; varies by program and state. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2024 | State insurance mandates for autism services—mature coverage landscape | Policy Trend | U.S. States | Neurodivergent | All 50 states + DC have autism insurance mandates; enhances access to ABA/related services (scope varies). | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| Year | Event / Milestone | Type | Jurisdiction | Disability Category | Why It Matters (1–2 lines) | Suggested Sources (short) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1817 | American School for the Deaf founded (Hartford) | Milestone/Education | U.S. State/CT | Sensory | First permanent school for the Deaf in the U.S.; advances Deaf education and ASL community. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1864 | Gallaudet University chartered | Milestone/Education | U.S. Federal/DC | Sensory | First university for the Deaf; federal charter reflects national commitment to accessible higher education. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1965 | Vocational Rehabilitation Act Amendments (communication aids) | Law/Policy | U.S. Federal | Sensory | Expanded services and technology for people with sensory disabilities. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1968 | Architectural Barriers Act (ABA) | Law | U.S. Federal | Sensory | Accessible design also supports orientation/wayfinding and assistive listening system accommodation in federal facilities. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1973 | Rehabilitation Act §504 | Law/Regulation | U.S. Federal | Sensory | Catalyzes captioning, interpreters, auxiliary aids, and program accessibility in federally funded entities. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1979 | Section 508 created (later strengthened) | Law/Policy | U.S. Federal | Sensory | Establishes accessible federal electronic/IT; later ‘Refresh’ aligns to WCAG for screen reader, captioning, etc. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1982 | Telecommunications for the Deaf, Inc. advocacy milestones (TTY relay expansion) | Policy/Milestone | U.S. | Sensory | National build-out of TTY/relay services enhances equal access to telephony. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1988 | Caption Decoder Circuitry Act | Law | U.S. Federal | Sensory | Requires decoder circuitry in televisions, accelerating closed captioning availability. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1990 | ADA Title IV (Telecommunications Relay Services) | Law | U.S. Federal | Sensory | Mandates nationwide TRS; expands communication access for Deaf/Hard of Hearing and speech disabilities. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1996 | Telecommunications Act §255 | Law/Regulation | U.S. Federal | Sensory | Requires telecom equipment/services to be accessible and usable when readily achievable. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2000 | Morse v. Frederick? (not sensory) | Court Case | U.S. | Sensory | Placeholder removed | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2002 | Help America Vote Act (HAVA) | Law | U.S. Federal | Sensory | Requires accessible voting systems including for blind/low-vision voters; improves polling place access. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2010 | 21st Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act (CVAA) | Law/Regulation | U.S. Federal | Sensory | Strengthens accessibility of advanced communications and video; requires captions for online video and accessible user interfaces. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2015 | DOT rules on airport kiosk/website accessibility | Regulation | U.S. Federal | Sensory | Ensures accessible self-service kiosks and airline websites for blind/low-vision travelers. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2017 | Section 508 ‘Refresh’ (ICT accessibility) | Regulation/Standard | U.S. Federal | Sensory | Aligns with WCAG 2.0 AA across federal digital content and software. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2020 | CVAA implementation milestones (IP captions/video description expansion) | Regulation/Policy | U.S. Federal | Sensory | Broader requirements for captions and audio description across platforms and devices. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2024 | WCAG 2.2 published (reference standard; adoption varies) | Standard | International/W3C | Sensory | Improves web usability for low-vision and cognitive users; informs U.S. procurement/compliance baselines. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| Year | Event / Milestone | Type | Jurisdiction | Disability Category | Why It Matters (1–2 lines) | Suggested Sources (short) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1945 | President’s Committee on Employment of the Physically Handicapped (predecessor to ODEP) | Policy/Program | U.S. Federal | Physical | Raised national visibility on employment barriers; precursor to modern disability employment policy. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1968 | Architectural Barriers Act (ABA) | Law | U.S. Federal | Physical | First federal law requiring accessible design in federally funded buildings—foundation for later accessibility standards. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1970 | Urban Mass Transportation Act Amendments (accessibility provisions) | Law | U.S. Federal | Physical | Seeded requirements and grants for accessible public transit vehicles and stations. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1973 | Rehabilitation Act §504 | Law/Regulation | U.S. Federal | Physical | Prohibits disability-based discrimination in federally funded programs; cornerstone for accessibility in education, healthcare, and services. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1975 | Education for All Handicapped Children Act (EHA) | Law | U.S. Federal | Physical | Guarantees FAPE and IEPs; later renamed IDEA, establishing educational rights for students with disabilities. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1977 | Section 504 Sit-ins (HEW regulations issued) | Milestone/Regulatory | U.S. Federal | Physical | Landmark protests led to issuance of §504 regulations; catalyzed enforcement of accessibility and anti-discrimination. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1982 | Youngberg v. Romeo | Court Case | U.S. Supreme Court | Physical | Established rights to reasonable safety and freedom from undue restraint in institutions. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1984 | ICD-9-CM updates (mobility impairments coding expansion) | Policy/Standard | U.S./International | Physical | Improved clinical recognition and tracking of mobility-related disabilities in health data. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1988 | Fair Housing Amendments Act (FHAA) | Law | U.S. Federal | Physical | Adds disability protections in housing; mandates reasonable accommodations and accessible design in multifamily housing. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1990 | Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Titles I–IV | Law | U.S. Federal | Physical | Comprehensive civil rights law covering employment, state/local services, public accommodations, and telecom relay for many disabilities. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1991 | ADA Accessibility Guidelines (ADAAG) | Regulation/Standard | U.S. Federal | Physical | Technical specifications for accessible design, shaping built environment compliance. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 1999 | Olmstead v. L.C. | Court Case | U.S. Supreme Court | Physical | Requires services in the most integrated setting appropriate; accelerates community-based alternatives to institutionalization. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2008 | ADA Amendments Act (ADAAA) | Law | U.S. Federal | Physical | Broadens definition of disability; clarifies major life activities including walking and bodily functions. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2010 | 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design | Regulation/Standard | U.S. Federal | Physical | Updated design standards for buildings and facilities; harmonizes with other codes. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2014 | Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) §511 | Law/Policy | U.S. Federal | Physical | Limits subminimum wages and expands pre-employment transition services for youth with disabilities. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2017 | Section 508 ‘Refresh’ (ICT accessibility) | Regulation/Standard | U.S. Federal | Physical | Aligns ICT accessibility with WCAG 2.0 AA; stronger obligations for federal technology accessibility. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2020 | Air Carrier Access Act – wheelchair damage tracking (DOT rule changes) | Regulation/Policy | U.S. Federal | Physical | Airlines must report mishandled wheelchairs/scooters; transparency prompts service improvements. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
| 2024 | ADA Title II Web & Mobile Accessibility Rule (DOJ) | Regulation | U.S. Federal | Physical | Sets technical web/mobile accessibility requirements for state/local governments; clarifies obligations for digital services. | US DOJ/DOE/EEOC regs; ODEP; ADA.gov; HHS OCR; W3C WCAG; VA.gov; SSA; Congress.gov |
