Per the notice below, the United States Office for Civil Rights (OCR) has issued a letter on grantee obligations under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

HHS Office for Civil Rights (OCR) and Administration for Community Living (ACL) Issue a Joint Letter to Grantees on Their Obligations Under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act 

On September 25, the day prior to the Anniversary of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, HHS OCR and ACL issued a joint letter to ACL grantees reminding them of their obligations under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.  On May 1st 2024, OCR finalized a rule that prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability.  This rule, titled Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Disability in Programs or Activities Receiving Federal Financial Assistance, advances equity and bolsters protections for people with disabilities under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.  Reflecting over 50 years of advocacy by the disability community, the Section 504 final rule clarifies and strengthens civil rights protections for people with disabilities, addresses discrimination in medical treatment, adds enforceable standards for accessible medical diagnostic equipment, and ensures accessible Web content and mobile apps.  The rule advances the promise of the Rehabilitation Act and helps protect people with disabilities from experiencing discrimination in any program or activity receiving funding from HHS because of their disability.  OCR remains committed to ensuring that all individuals, including those with disabilities, have access to health care and human services free from discrimination and will continue to provide guidance and technical assistance to covered entities.  To read OCR and ACL’s letter click here.