The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was passed in 1990. The ADA contains four major parts called titles. Title I of the ADA applies to employment. Title II applies to state and local government agencies. Title III applies to businesses. Title IV governs relay services. We will talk about Titles II and III of the ADA. We will talk about what the law requires government agencies and businesses to do to ensure access for deaf people. Many people think that the law requires government agencies and businesses to give a deaf person an interpreter when the deaf person wants an interpreter. Not true! The ADA requires that an interpreter be provided only when necessary to ensure effective communication. Thus, the ADA generally requires interpreters only when necessary for effective communication. Even then, government agencies and businesses are not required to provide interpreters if they cannot afford interpreters. They must be able to show that they really don’t have the money.

1. Please give two examples of accommodations (auxiliary aids and services).

2. Please explain how to determine whether a person who is deaf has the right to an interpreter.

3. Please explain why a deaf person may have the right to an interpreter at a hospital but not in a restaurant.