Special Education Legislation

Community Mental Health Act

Oct 31, 1963

Also known as the Public Law 88-164, this law was initiated by John F. Kennedy. President Kennedy was inspired by his sister, Rosemary, who was born with intellectual disabilities, specifically mental retardation. This law provided funding to build mental health facilities and grants for research.

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act

Sep 26, 1973

Also known as Public Law 93-112, this law was a turning point in history for americans with disabilities. This law guaranteed civil liberties to disabled people and was the first of its kind. It also expanded the definition of a disabled person and specified that a person cannot be excluded based on their disabilities.

Education for All Handicapped Children Act

Nov 30, 1975

Also known as Public Law 94-142, this law changed the government's role in the education of children with disabilities. EHA made the government responsible for providing resources to children with special needs. This piece of legislation really helped changed the stigma still looming over the disabled community.

Americans with Disabilities Act

Jul 26, 1990

Also known as Public Law 101-336, is another law that is meant to prevent discrimination based on disabilities. This act largely caused changes to public places, requiring them to make accomodations for the disabled. An example of this would be wheel chair accessbile ramps.

No Child Left Behind

Jan 8, 2002

Also known as Public Law 107-110, this piece of legislation held public schools accountable for their students performance. Schools had to provide data to prove their success and if they did not perform well, funding could be pulled from the school.

Individuals with Disabilities Improvement Act of 2004

Dec 3, 2004

Also known as IDEA 2004, this legislation made changes to the law already in existance. Major changes included setting IEP standards and transition statements.