Special Education and the Law for Parents

Section 504 of the Vocational Rehabilitation Act

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 is a national law that protects qualified individuals from discrimination based on their disability. The nondiscrimination requirements of the law apply to employers and organizations that receive financial assistance from any Federal department or agency, including the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). These organizations and employers include many hospitals, nursing homes, mental health centers and human service programs.

Section 504 forbids organizations and employers from excluding or denying individuals with disabilities an equal opportunity to receive program benefits and services. It defines the rights of individuals with disabilities to participate in, and have access to, program benefits and services.

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Section 504 of the Vocational Rehabilitation Act

  • Frequently asked questions from the US Department of Education
    Your rights under section 504
  • The Law as described from the UD Department of Labor
  • The law
  • Explanation of the law
  • Wrightslaw summary
  • Section 504 and IDEA: Basic Similarities and Differences
  • Presentation materials and papers on Section 504.
  • From the U.S. Department of Justice
  • Who is protected under the law?
  • The impact of the law on postsecondary education
  • This is an overview of Section 504
  • An Overview of ADA, IDEA, and Section 504
  • What criteria are used to determine 504 eligibility?
  • Situations when it is inappropriate to offer a Section 504 accommodation plan
  • Manifestation meeting when considering the expulsion or long term suspension of a student with a Section 504 plan
  • Manifestation determination for a student on a 504 Plan and what information is included in this process.