Which law expanded the concept of "equal access" to private businesses?

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is the law that significantly expanded the concept of "equal access" to private businesses. Enacted in 1990, the ADA was a landmark piece of legislation aimed at eliminating discrimination against individuals with disabilities in various aspects of public life, including employment, transportation, public accommodations, and telecommunications.

One of the key components of the ADA is its requirement for businesses and organizations to provide reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities, ensuring they have the same opportunities and access as those without disabilities. This commitment to accessibility extends to private businesses, making it a substantial shift in acknowledging the rights of people with disabilities.

In contrast, other laws such as the Rehabilitation Act primarily focused on federal programs and facilities, limiting their application to government entities rather than the private sector. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) specifically centers on the education of children with disabilities, predominantly in public schools, while the Civil Rights Act, though crucial for addressing discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin, does not specifically address disabilities. Thus, the ADA stands out as the appropriate choice for expanding "equal access" to private businesses.