07/26/2025
Happy 35th Anniversary to the Americans with Disabilities Act. This civil rights legislation ensures all of us have equal access to housing, employment, and community life.
What have you done for me lately? 35 years of the ADA in action
Jul 21, 2025 Citrus County Chronicle
When the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed into law on July 26, 1990, by President George H. W. Bush, many people asked: Is this necessary? How does it help me? Thirty-five years later, the answer is clear: the ADA benefits all of us.
This landmark civil rights legislation ensures individuals with disabilities have equal access to housing, employment, government services, transportation and public accommodations. ADA defines a disability as a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities. The ADA has led to greater inclusion for everyone.
Accessible Citrus County
In 2022, Bruce Titus, a local resident paralyzed after being struck by a car, advocated for better access at Fort Island Gulf Beach. There is now a concrete walkway and mobility mat at the beach’s north end.
Other Citrus County examples of the ADA in action:
Infrastructure upgrades: Road projects include curb cuts for smooth sidewalk-to-street transitions, tactile warning surfaces at crosswalks, and compliant sidewalk widths.
Historic site improvements: The Old Courthouse Heritage Museum replaced an outdated lift with a more functional ramp.
Smarter building design: Lever-style door handles instead of round k***s, require less grip and make doors easier to open.
Technology: Valerie Theatre and The Art Center’s assistive listening devices make performances more enjoyable for those who are hard of hearing or anyone who wants to hear more clearly. Chamber of Commerce, County Commission, and local businesses’ closed-captioned social media posts helps those with hearing loss, but also those who prefer to watch content silently in public or while multitasking.
New federal rules expand access
The ADA is evolving to meet modern needs. Two recently finalized federal rules are expanding access:
Medical diagnostic equipment: Health care providers must ensure accessible exam tables, scales, X-ray equipment, and more – helping reduce disparities in care for people with mobility impairments.
Digital accessibility: By April 24, 2026, local and state governments serving 50,000+ people must ensure websites, apps, and social media meet federal accessibility standards.
ADA coordinators: Champions of access
Any government with 50 or more employees must designate at least one person to coordinate ADA compliance. Smaller agencies and businesses are encouraged to do the same.
These coordinators work behind the scenes to ensure customers safe, equitable and unfettered access to public spaces, programs and services. Who is the go-to in your organization?
Compliance isn’t the ceiling, it’s the floor
Meeting ADA standards is the legal minimum. True inclusion starts when we ask:
“How can I design my space, product, service, or message so more people can use it?”
Citrus County has the third oldest population in Florida and relies heavily on tourism. Designing products and environments that are usable regardless of age or ability is a smart investment.
Accessibility is about usability and quality of life. Let the 35th anniversary of the ADA be more than just a milestone. Make a recommitment to inclusion so we create a stronger, more resilient community for all.
Laura Lee Putzback and her service dog Rilee provide community education free of charge. She is a certified ADA Coordinator, co-facilitator of the Florida ADA Coordinators Network, and a volunteer with Service Dog Alliance of Florida. Call 352-410-6500 or go online at servicedogafl.com.
