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Next Quarterly Council Meeting: January 16-17, 2025

History of Disabilities Policy

The history of disability policy is long and rich. Here are a few of the seminal disability policies in the United States.

Americans with Disabilities Act

The Developmentally Disabled Assistance and Bill of Rights Act (DD Act) is a US law providing federal funds to Councils on Developmental Disabilities, Protection and Advocacy Systems, as well as University Centers. In Georgia it is responsible for the creation of the Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities, the Center for Leadership in Disability at Georgia State University, the Institute on Human Development and Disability at the University of Georgia and the Georgia Advocacy Office. 

What is the Olmstead Decision?

The Olmstead Decision is a landmark U.S. Supreme Court case that originated in Georgia. The case, Olmstead v L.C. and E.W., was decided on June 22, 1999. The Court found that people who were segregated in institutions were victims of disability discrimination and should be given the opportunity to live in community settings.  This decision included people with developmental disabilities, people with mental illness, and elderly people.

Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is the federal law that governs how public schools must serve children with disabilities from birth until age 22. IDEA requires that schools provide a free, appropriate public education (FAPE) in the least restrictive environment (LRE). IDEA determines how states and public agencies provide early intervention, special education, and related services to eligible infants, toddlers, children, and youth with disabilities.

If I experience discrimination due to my disability, who can help me?

Contact either the Georgia Advocacy Office which is Georgia’s Protection and Advocacy Agency for people with disabilities or Georgia Legal Aid to find your local Legal Aid office.