Which law established the right of individuals with disabilities to receive vocational rehabilitation services?

The Rehabilitation Act of 1973 is the foundational law that established the right of individuals with disabilities to receive vocational rehabilitation services. This act was significant because it not only recognized the rights of people with disabilities but also provided for various programs and services designed to assist them in gaining access to employment.

One of the key components of the Rehabilitation Act is Section 501, which prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in federal employment, as well as Section 504, which ensures that individuals with disabilities have equal access to programs and services receiving federal financial assistance. The vocational rehabilitation services provided under this act are aimed at helping individuals develop the skills and resources necessary to achieve independence and meaningful employment.

In contrast, while the Americans with Disabilities Act expands civil rights protections and increases access for individuals with disabilities in many areas, it does not directly establish vocational rehabilitation services. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act focuses primarily on the education of children with disabilities, ensuring that they receive appropriate educational services. The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act addresses workforce development but is more focused on job training and the workforce system rather than specifically on the rights to rehabilitation services established in the Rehabilitation Act.