A number of laws have been established to protect the rights of Americans with disabilities, beginning with the American with Disabilities Act and continuing with more progressive legislation. The resources in this section include some of the most informative websites related to laws that have established the right of greater choice for persons with disabilities.

American with Disabilities Act
The U.S. Department of Justice maintains a website dedicated entirely to information concerning the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Included are helpful publications and contact information for ADA related issues.

New Freedom Initiative
The President's "New Freedom Initiative" is important legislation related to individuals with disabilities. It establishes, for all Americans, the opportunity to learn and develop skills, engage in productive employment, live where they choose and participate in their communities. It also supports further research in the areas of assistive technology and universal design.

Section 508
Section 508 requires that Federal agencies' electronic and information technology is accessible to people with disabilities.

Section 504

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act was enacted in 1973 in an effort to "level the playing field" for people with disabilities. The law was intended to prevent the discrimination of disabled persons who receive federal financial assistance, in public and private programs and activities.

Differences between Section 504 and IDEA
Section 504 is often confused with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), however, there are differences between the two laws.

Hawai`i Department of Education-Section 504
To review State of Hawai`i comments on the 504 law, go to this page of the Department of Education site.

Hawai`i 504
This site discusses section 504 and how Hawai`i interprets the law.

Hawai`i State Legislature
The Hawai`i State Legislature website provides information on recent State of Hawai`i laws. You are also able to track the legislative process and the status of bills in the system.

Kidsourceonline
Kidsource online is a recognized resource for the families and educators of persons with disabilities. This site has a basic overview of the Section 504 (and ADA and IDEA) laws and regulations.

U.S. Department of Justice
The U.S. Department of Justice hosts a web page that provides details on all major disability rights legislation.