Which act declared that individuals cannot be excluded from programs based solely on disability?

Which act declared that individuals cannot be excluded from programs based solely on disability?

• A. Individual with Disabilities Education Act
• B. Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act
• C. Americans with Disabilities Act
• D. Education for All Handicapped Children Act

Answer: (B)

The correct answer is based on Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, which is a significant piece of legislation that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in programs and activities that receive federal financial assistance. The law establishes that no qualified person with a disability should be excluded from, denied the benefits of, or subjected to discrimination under any program or activity receiving federal funds. This broad protection extends to various areas, including education, employment, and health services, ensuring that disabled individuals have equal access to programs. Other choices represent important legislation related to disability rights, but their focus differs. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act primarily governs special education and ensures that children with disabilities receive appropriate public education. The Americans with Disabilities Act expands on the principles of non-discrimination, particularly in employment and public accommodations, but it was enacted later and complements Section 504. The Education for All Handicapped Children Act, now known as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, was foundational for educational rights but does not specifically address programs beyond education. Thus, Section 504 stands out as the law specifically prohibiting exclusion from programs based solely on disability.

The correct answer is based on Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, which is a significant piece of legislation that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in programs and activities that receive federal financial assistance. The law establishes that no qualified person with a disability should be excluded from, denied the benefits of, or subjected to discrimination under any program or activity receiving federal funds. This broad protection extends to various areas, including education, employment, and health services, ensuring that disabled individuals have equal access to programs.

Other choices represent important legislation related to disability rights, but their focus differs. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act primarily governs special education and ensures that children with disabilities receive appropriate public education. The Americans with Disabilities Act expands on the principles of non-discrimination, particularly in employment and public accommodations, but it was enacted later and complements Section 504. The Education for All Handicapped Children Act, now known as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, was foundational for educational rights but does not specifically address programs beyond education. Thus, Section 504 stands out as the law specifically prohibiting exclusion from programs based solely on disability.