The Americans with Disabilities Act was passed in 1990, and requires that Americans with disabilities be given the same opportunities as non-disabled Americans. According to the 101st congress, the purpose of the Act is as follows:

Purpose.–It is the purpose of this Act–
(1) to provide a clear and comprehensive national mandate for the
elimination of discrimination against individuals with disabilities;
(2) to provide clear, strong, consistent, enforceable standards
addressing discrimination against individuals with disabilities;
(3) to ensure that the Federal Government plays a central role in
enforcing the standards established in this Act on behalf of individuals
with disabilities; and
(4) to invoke the sweep of congressional authority, including the power
to enforce the fourteenth amendment and to regulate commerce, in order to
address the major areas of discrimination faced day-to-day by people with
disabilities.

For more information on legal matters please see:
The US Dept. of Justice Guide to Disability Rights Laws
The US Dept. of Justice ADA Homepage www.ada.gov