Basking Ridge: Somerset County Honors American Disabilities Act

Press release from the Somerset County Government:

July 30, 2020

SOMERVILLE, NJ – In honor of the 30th anniversary of the American Disabilities Act (ADA), the Somerset County Board of Chosen Freeholders has recently issued a proclamation recognizing the importance of ADA legislation. Enacted 30 years ago in July, the ADA has positively impacted the lives of millions of U.S. citizens with disabilities by protecting their civil rights.

“Currently, there are 25,000 residents with disabilities living in Somerset County,” said Somerset County Freeholder Director Shanel Y. Robinson. “The full promise of the ADA can only be reached if our state and county residents are committed to fully embracing the ADA.”

“Passing the ADA has created more opportunities for people with disabilities by reducing barriers, changing perceptions, and bringing a unique and positive perspective to all areas of our lives,” said Somerset County Freeholder Brian D. Levine, office on aging liaison.

Enacting ADA legislation has helped to ensure that people with disabilities have the same rights and opportunities as other citizens. The law mandates that both public and private entities must provide equal employment opportunities for people with disabilities, and accommodations to meet their needs for transportation and telecommunications, as well as to provide state and local government services.

Somerset County Disability Services was established as an information and referral resource for individuals with disabilities and their family members, friends, caregivers and communities. For more information about disability services, click here, or call 908-704-6346 or toll-free at 1-888-747-1122. Residents can also email DisabilityServices2@co.somerset.nj.us.

To stay up to date with Somerset County events and information, sign up for free email alerts at www.co.somerset.nj.us/subscribe or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

This press release was produced by the Somerset County Government. The views expressed here are the author’s own.