Defending Your Rights

Disability Rights

People with disabilities are entitled, as a matter of law, to fair and equal opportunities in all aspects of life. The Disability Rights Bureau enforces state and federal laws that protect the rights of people with disabilities to equal access to buildings, housing and services, including the Environmental Barriers Act. The Bureau also works with Madigan’s Health Care Bureau to mediate complaints about assistive technology equipment, whether over a dispute regarding the denial of a refund or replacement of assistive technology.

In addition to the Bureau's enforcement work, the Disability Rights Bureau regularly provides technical assistance and referrals to individuals with disabilities and public and private entities seeking to comply with disability rights laws. The Bureau conducts disability rights training programs for law enforcement, architects, engineers, building code officials and inspectors, judges and court personnel, business owners, disability rights organizations, and other groups upon request.

The Disability Rights Bureau Discrimination Complaint Form, contact information, and resources are provided below.

• Law Enforcement Guide to Interacting with People with Autism
• Law Enforcement Guide to Interacting with People Who Are Deaf or Hard of Hearing
• Law Enforcement Guide to Interacting with People Who Are Blind or Visually Impaired

Abuse, Neglect and Financial Exploitation of People with Disabilities

Commissions, Boards and Committees

Disability Rights Discrimination Complaint Form

Ensuring Accessibility for Customers with Disabilities: A Guide for Illinois
Businesses and other Public Accommodations

Environmental Barriers Act

Judicial, Legal and Law Enforcement Training

Opening the Bench and Bar to People with Disabilities

Publications

Disability Rights Bureau Contact Information

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