A state or local government agency, also known as a public entity, may not deny the benefits of its programs, activities, and services to individuals with disabilities because its facilities are physically inaccessible.
A public entity’s services, programs, and activities, WHEN VIEWED IN THEIR ENTIRETY, must be readily accessible to and useable by individuals with disabilities. This standard applies to all existing facilities of a public entity.
Public entities are not necessarily required to make all of their existing facilities accessible.
Methods for Providing Program Access
Nonstructural Changes
Acquisition or redesign of equipment, assignment of aides, provision of services at alternate accessible sites, modification to policies, practices, and procedures.
Structural Changes
Alterations of existing facilities and acquisition of construction of new accessible facilities.
When choosing a method of providing program access, a public entity must give priority to the one that results in the most integrated setting appropriate to encourage interaction among all users, including individuals with disabilities.