The Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Rehabilitation Act) is landmark legislation, which changed the course of services and expanded the rights of individuals with disabilities in our nation. It set out the purpose, policy and principles that have continued to guide its implementation over the past 50 years.
Congress acknowledged that disability is a natural part of the human experience that in no way diminishes the right of millions of Americans with disabilities, including those with the most significant disabilities, to live independently; enjoy self-determination; make choices; contribute to society; pursue meaningful careers; and enjoy full inclusion and integration in the economic, political, social, cultural and educational mainstream of American society.
Today, the purposes of the Rehabilitation Act continue to include—
- Empowerment of individuals with disabilities to maximize employment, economic self-sufficiency, independence, and inclusion and integration into society, through statewide workforce development systems established under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), which we are also celebrating this month, that include, as integral components, comprehensive and coordinated state-of-the-art programs of vocational rehabilitation;
- Maximization of opportunities for individuals with disabilities, including individuals with significant and most significant disabilities, for competitive integrated employment;
- Leadership by the federal government in promoting the employment of individuals with disabilities and in [...]