In 1968, Congress took its first steps to make sure there was access to federal buildings for people with disabilities. The Architectural Barriers Act (ABA) stated that any buildings that were built or altered with federal dollars must be accessible. The ABA allowed buildings that predate it to remain as they were. This was the first disability law in the United States. It paved the way for the Rehabilitation Act and Americans with Disabilities Act that would further expand disability rights. Things that make buildings more accessible are ramps, accessible parking, elevators, and other features. Post offices, national parks, and Veterans Affairs facilities fall under the ABA. The ABA even covers nongovernmental facilities, such as certain schools, transit systems, and public housing that received federal funding.

Read more