OSERS Celebrates 50th Anniversary of the Rehabilitation Act

The Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS) is celebrating the fiftieth anniversary of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. The act remains a landmark piece of legislation that has significantly impacted the rights and services available to individuals with disabilities in the United States over the past 50 years. In a new blog post, OSERS acknowledges that disability is a natural part of human life and emphasizes the right of people with disabilities to live independently, make choices, contribute to society, pursue meaningful careers, and fully integrate into all aspects of American life. Since its passage, the Rehabilitation Act has led to several important developments: (1) Inclusion of Individuals with Significant Disabilities, (2) Individualized Services and Informed Choice, (3) Emphasis on Competitive Integrated Employment, (4) Pre-Employment Transition Services, (5) Technological Advancements that have expanded vocational opportunities and choices for individuals with disabilities, and (6) Partnerships and Collaboration have enhanced resources and opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

Read the full OSERS blog post here.