What is the purpose of Section 504?

The purpose of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 is to prohibit discrimination based on disability in programs and activities that receive federal financial assistance. This civil rights law ensures that individuals with disabilities have equal access to education and are provided with the accommodations they need to participate fully in educational environments. By establishing this foundational principle, Section 504 plays a crucial role in safeguarding the rights of students with disabilities, ensuring they have the opportunity to succeed alongside their peers without facing barriers or discrimination due to their disabilities.

The focus of Section 504 is specifically on preventing discrimination rather than providing funding, setting safety guidelines, or regulating educational standards, which are addressed by other laws and regulations in the educational landscape.