“By making access to buildings a federal law in 1990, the ADA opened up the opportunity for millions of Americans to become an important and productive part of our communities. Until the enactment of the ADA in 1990, people were largely confined to their homes because the public sector remained inaccessible—without barrier-free access to buildings, opportunities for some people with disabilities to work or experience the physical community outside the home was not possible. The ADA provided the connection between housing and the commercial built environment - a connection that’s vital for communities to thrive. The public realm consequently benefited from the buying power of people with disabilities who could now engage in the marketplace in ways that they couldn’t before. The ADA also expanded employment opportunities for people with disabilities and lessened reliance of people with disabilities on public assistance. The ripple effects of the ADA are tremendous. It’s one of the most comprehensive and impactful civil rights legislation which has positively impacted millions of Americans with and without disabilities.”