Attorney General's News Release

April 4, 2008

Answers to frequently asked questions about the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) now available on AGO Web site

Jefferson City, Mo. - Attorney General Jay Nixon today encouraged Missourians who have questions about the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to visit a new page on his Web site, ago.mo.gov. The page features the answers to more than 30 questions frequently asked about the ADA, which was signed into law in 1990.

"Almost 20 years after this federal law was signed, those with disabilities still face obstacles that, by law, should not be there," Nixon said. "With this Web page, we want to provide ADA information that is readily accessible and easy to understand."

The FAQ page covers such topics as public accommodations; service animals; barrier removal and accessibility; and new construction and modification of existing premises. The site features information useful to all - those with disabilities, as well as those who want to know more about how to better accommodate persons with disabilities under the law. Nixon also provides guidance on what Missourians can do if they believe their rights under the ADA have been violated.

Last September, Nixon filed lawsuits against eight condominium developments at the Lake of the Ozarks, alleging they violated the Missouri Human Rights Act by discriminating against the disabled. Nixon has asked for court orders requiring the developments to be redesigned and retrofitted to comply with the accessibility mandates of the Act.

The Attorney General's Office also has provided training and information regarding ADA requirements to almost 2,000 local officials who have attended one of the many free Ethics in Government seminars Nixon has offered over the past 10 years.

Frequently asked questions about the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

Inquiries from consumers should be directed to consumer@ago.mo.gov or 1-800-392-8222 (from within Missouri) or 573-751-3321 (outside Missouri).

All media inquiries should be directed to Press Secretary John Fougere.

E-mail      Phone: 573-751-8844         Fax: 573-751-5818