Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
Transparency & Verification
Verified from Official SourcePolicy Pantry collects information from official and trusted public sources. Legislative information can change quickly. Always review the linked official government source for the most current details.
AI Plain-Language Summary
Click "Generate" to create an AI-powered plain-language summary of this legislation.
Summary
Federal civil rights law prohibiting disability discrimination in public accommodations, employment, and government services, applicable to severe food allergies.
Full Description
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability in employment, public accommodations, transportation, and government services. Severe food allergies and anaphylaxis may qualify as a disability under the ADA if they substantially limit a major life activity. Title III of the ADA requires public accommodations (restaurants, hotels, schools, theaters, etc.) to make reasonable modifications to accommodate individuals with disabilities, which may include providing allergen information, modifying food preparation, or allowing service animals.
Key Provisions
1. Prohibits disability discrimination in public accommodations. 2. Requires reasonable modifications for disabilities. 3. Applies to restaurants, schools, and public venues. 4. Severe allergies may qualify as a disability.
Who This Bill Serves & Who's Backing It
Core Patient Populations
People with food allergies — including children, students, and their families.
Advocacy Groups Backing This Legislation
No advocacy organizations are currently tracked as backing this bill.Browse advocacy organizations →
Legislative Timeline
Votes & Legislative History
Grade nine and grade 10 health education Standards of Learning; severe allergic reaction awareness training
Requires the Board of Education to include severe allergic reaction awareness training in the health education Standards of Learning for grades nine and 10.
Youth Facility Health Records Rule
Health record maintenance for youth facilities
Requires youth facilities to maintain health records for youth, including allergy information and current medications, and ensures that all medical equipment (like inhalers and epinephrine) is transferred securely with the youth.
Allergy awareness and training in restaurants
Requires food service establishments to implement allergy awareness training for staff regarding major food allergens.
While we strive for accuracy, information may change over time. Always double-check and verify against official sources before relying on it.