Who is covered under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)?

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a comprehensive piece of legislation that prohibits discrimination based on disability across various sectors. It is designed to ensure equal opportunity and accessibility for individuals with disabilities in a wide range of areas, including employment, public services, public accommodations, and telecommunications.

The correct answer reflects that all businesses and organizations that are open to the public must comply with the ADA. This includes private entities such as restaurants, hotels, retail stores, theaters, and recreational facilities. Essentially, any establishment that offers goods or services to the public is obligated to provide reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities, which can include making physical spaces accessible or providing auxiliary aids and services.

In contrast, the other options are limited and do not capture the full scope of the ADA. Federal government agencies are required to comply with different regulations that govern public sector operations, educational institutions must adhere to specific federal laws such as Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, and non-profit organizations, while also covered under the ADA, do not represent the complete range of entities that are mandated to comply. The law’s broad application aims to promote inclusiveness and equal access in all areas where public interaction occurs.