HHS final rule strengthens protections against disability discrimination

The Department of Health and Human Services May 1 released a final rule bolstering discrimination protections for people with disabilities under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. The rule clarifies and strengthens civil rights protections for people with disabilities, addresses discrimination in medical treatment, adds enforceable standards for accessible medical diagnostic equipment, and ensures accessible web content and mobile apps. It also helps protect individuals with disabilities from experiencing discrimination in any program or activity receiving funding from HHS because of their disability.  
 
Additionally, the final rule updates existing requirements to make them consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act. The rule takes effect 60 days after publication in the May 9 Federal Register. 
 
See the HHS fact sheet for more on the rule.