Overview

• The U.S. Department of Justice has removed 11 guidance documents related to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), citing their outdated nature and a January 2025 executive order from President Trump aimed at reducing regulatory burdens.
• The rescinded guidance includes materials addressing COVID-19-related issues such as mask exemptions, service animals, and accessibility in outdoor dining spaces, as well as older documents dating back to 1999.
• Officials argue the move will simplify ADA compliance for businesses and reduce costs, while highlighting tax incentives available to support accessibility improvements.
• Advocacy groups, including the American Association of People with Disabilities, expressed concerns that the removal could create confusion and weaken protections for people with disabilities in accessing services.
• The ADA itself remains unchanged, but critics warn that the absence of clear guidance could exacerbate existing barriers in areas like retail, lodging, and healthcare.