The Rehabilitation Act of 1973 is a federal law that serves to protect the rights of individuals with disabilities. Here are the key points about this important legislation:

Purpose and Scope:

• The Rehabilitation Act was enacted to replace the Vocational Rehabilitation Act.
• It extends and revises the authorization of grants to states for vocational rehabilitation services.
• The law emphasizes services for individuals with the most severe disabilities.
• It also expands special federal responsibilities, research, and training.

Sections of the Rehabilitation Act:

• Section 501: Prohibits employment discrimination against individuals with disabilities in the federal sector.
• Section 505: Contains provisions governing remedies and attorney’s fees under Section 501.
• Section 705: Defines terms used in the Act, including “individual with a disability” and “illegal use of drugs.”

Definition of “Individual with a Disability”:

• The term “individual with a disability” means, for purposes of various sections of the Act:
  • Any person who has a disability as defined in Section 12102 of Title 42.
• The Act covers various subchapters, including vocational rehabilitation services and other related areas.

Drug Use and Disability:

• The Act defines “drug” as a controlled substance according to the Controlled Substances Act.
• “Illegal use of drugs” refers to drug use that is unlawful under the Controlled Substances Act.
• However, it does not include drug use under supervision by a licensed health care professional or other authorized uses.

For further information visit Equal Employment Opportunity Commission Site