Harley D. Engelman, M.B.A, Marketing and Business Relations Director

There are so many misperceptions about the Americans with Disabilities Act, particularly among business owners and employers. So let’s set the record straight. The ADA is pro-business. That’s right, pro-business.

The ADA was written to protect the rights of individuals with disabilities. It was meant to protect these individuals from discrimination due to their respective disabilities. However, the ADA was also written to protect business owners and employers from frivolous lawsuits and complaints by clearly defining their roles and responsibilities in areas such as employment and access to goods and services.

The ADA Accessibility Guidelines, often referred to as the ADAAG, sets accessibility guidelines for new building construction and remodeling of existing structures. The proper implementation of these guidelines by business keeps them in compliance with the law, by just as importantly, opens the potential for all consumers to take advantage of the goods or services marketed by the business.

Quite simply, the ADA represents opportunity for business, not restriction.

If you want to learn more or need assistance in understanding the ADA, our ADA Leadership
Network can help. You can reach Rehabilitation Consulting & Services at 701-328-8950 or 1-800-755-2745.

WWW.ND.GOV/DHS/RCS
(701) 328-8957
1-800-755-2745
RCS has eight statewide locations including Bismarck, Fargo, Minot, Grand Forks, Williston, Devils Lake, Dickinson and Jamestown.