Which law extends the protections of the Vocational Rehabilitation Act of 1973 to a broader range of individuals with disabilities?

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is the law that extends protections to a broader range of individuals with disabilities beyond those specified in the Vocational Rehabilitation Act of 1973. The ADA, enacted in 1990, prohibits discrimination based on disability in various areas, including employment, public accommodations, transportation, and telecommunications. By broadening the definition of who qualifies as having a disability and outlining the rights of these individuals, the ADA significantly expands the protections available to people with disabilities.

In contrast, the Education for the Handicapped Act mainly focuses on the educational needs of children with disabilities, ensuring they receive appropriate public education. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) also emphasizes educational rights but is specific to the educational context. The Rehabilitation Act Amendments build upon and enhance the original Vocational Rehabilitation Act but do not have the same broad scope as the ADA in terms of civil rights and protections. Therefore, the Americans with Disabilities Act is the most comprehensive legislation regarding the extension of protections to individuals with disabilities.