The Americans with Disabilities Act: Costly Mandates or Civil Rights?

Some persons in the US view the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) as a civil rights act. Others view it as an intrusive and costly mandate imposed upon the state and local governments by the federal government. In an attempt to resolve the issue, the question of costs versus civil rights in the ADA is reviewed. The argument that the ADA is intrusive and costly is analyzed showing that it fails in terms of logic and fiscal impact. A conclusion about costs and civil rights is offered.