Which group of individuals is primarily protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)?

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is fundamentally designed to protect individuals with disabilities from discrimination in various aspects of life, particularly in employment. This legislation provides a legal framework that ensures that qualified individuals with disabilities have equal opportunities and are not subjected to discriminatory practices based on their disabilities. The ADA defines an individual with a disability as someone who has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, has a history of such an impairment, or is regarded as having such an impairment.

This explicit focus on individuals with disabilities demonstrates the ADA's commitment to fostering an inclusive environment in the workplace and beyond, thereby making it clear that the primary group protected under this law comprises those who fall under its definition of disability. This protection includes ensuring reasonable accommodations are made to enable them to perform their job duties effectively.