Rehabilitation Act of 1973

1) Link to the Text of the Act
Read the statute (29 U.S.C. § 701 et seq.)

2) 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.

3) 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).

4) 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.

5) Who or What It Controls

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

6) Key Sections / Citations

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

7) Recent Changes or Live Controversies

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

8) Official Sources