Office of State ADA Coordinator

Office of state ada coordinator

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a federal law that prohibits discrimination based on disability in all areas of public life, including employment, education, transportation and all public and private places that are open to the general public. The purpose of OSADAC is to provide educational and technical support to foster voluntary compliance with the ADA. This includes overseeing state law that requires mandatory ADA policies, training requirements and annual reporting. In addition, OSADAC provides informal assistance to the general public, such as identifying and connecting people with resources to address specific ADA issues. This may include referrals to other governmental entities or organizations for appropriate recourse. Lastly, OSADAC coordinates the State As a Model Employer initiative related to annualized plans by state agencies to improve the recruitment and retention of employees with disabilities in Louisiana state government.

What can I do if I believe the ADA has been violated?

You can file a complaint with the applicable Federal government agency that enforces the ADA based on the area of public life that is impacted.

1. Education: File a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Civil Rights.
2. Employment: File a charge of discrimination with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.
3. Government Services: File a report with the U.S. Department of Justice, Civil Rights Division.
4. Places of Public Accommodation (such as stores, restaurants and medical facilities): File a report with the U.S. Department of Justice, Civil Rights Division.
5. Transportation: File a complaint with the U.S. Department of Transportation, Office of Civil Rights.

You may also file a lawsuit in court. There are certain organizations that may be able to provide free or low-cost legal services regarding ADA matters, such as Disability Rights Louisiana or Southeast Louisiana Legal Services.