According to the website for the Americans with Disabilities Act:
The Americans with Disabilities Act gives civil rights protections to individuals with disabilities similar to those provided to individuals on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, age, and religion. It guarantees equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities in public accommodations, employment, transportation, State and local government services, and telecommunications.
The law is designed to protect individuals from discrimination, afford individuals equal access to public facilities and services, and enable society to benefit from the skills and talents of persons with disabilities.
For more information, visit Americans with Disabilities Act: Questions and Answers.