Discover how the Architectural Barriers Act has transformed federal buildings, ensuring equal access for all and paving the way for a more inclusive society.
The Architectural Barriers Act (ABA) of 1968 was a groundbreaking piece of legislation that marked the first federal effort to ensure accessibility in the built environment for people with disabilities. Signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson, the ABA requires that buildings and facilities designed, constructed, altered, or leased with federal funds be accessible to individuals with physical disabilities. This law applies to a wide range of structures, including post offices, federal office buildings, national parks, and public housing projects. The ABA established uniform standards for accessibility, covering elements such as ramps, parking spaces, doorways, elevators, and restrooms. Four federal agencies are responsible for implementing these standards: the General Services Administration, the Department of Defense, the Department of Housing and Urban Development, and the U.S. Postal Service. The ABA laid the foundation for future disability rights legislation and continues to play a crucial role in promoting inclusivity in public spaces.
Overview and Background
Architectural Barriers Act (ABA) of 1968 – Official overview from the U.S. Access Board explaining the law’s purpose and scope.
Celebrating 50 Years of the Architectural Barriers Act – Blog post from the Administration for Community Living reflecting on the ABA’s impact.
Architectural Barriers Act of 1968 – Wikipedia article providing historical context and details about the Act.
Full Text and Standards
Text of the Architectural Barriers Act (ABA) – Complete legal text of the ABA from the U.S. Access Board.
ABA Standards – Detailed accessibility standards issued under the ABA.
ABA Standards (enhanced single file version) – Comprehensive document containing all ABA standards in one file.
Guidance and Implementation
ABA Standards Guide – Illustrated guide to help understand and apply the ABA Standards.
Differences Between ADA and ABA Standards – Explanation of key differences between ADA and ABA requirements.
Architectural Barriers Act Accessibility Standards (ABAAS) – U.S. Forest Service guide to implementing ABAAS.
Enforcement and Compliance
File an ABA Complaint – Online form to report potential ABA violations to the U.S. Access Board.
ABA Enforcement Process – Overview of how ABA complaints are investigated and resolved.
Information Regarding the Architectural Barriers Act – Department of Energy guidance on ABA compliance.
Federal Agency Resources
GSA Accessibility Resources – General Services Administration tools for accessible design in federal facilities.
HUD Accessibility Requirements – Department of Housing and Urban Development ABA compliance information.
Department of Defense ABA Standards – DoD policy on implementing ABA standards in military facilities.
Educational Resources
Architectural Barriers Act (ABA) – Educational overview from the Northeast ADA Center.
What is the Architectural Barriers Act? – Fact sheet explaining the basics of the ABA.
ABA Accessibility Standards Course – Free webinar on understanding and applying ABA standards.
Related Laws and Regulations
ADA Standards for Accessible Design – Comparison resource for understanding ADA accessibility requirements.
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act – Overview of related disability rights legislation.
Technical Assistance
U.S. Access Board Technical Assistance – Contact information for ABA-related questions and guidance.
ADA National Network – Regional centers providing information and training on disability rights laws including the ABA.
Research and Reports
Effectiveness of the Architectural Barriers Act – Government Accountability Office report on ABA implementation.
History of Accessible Facility Design – Research on the evolution of accessibility standards including the ABA.
Impact of the ABA on Federal Building Accessibility – Academic study examining the ABA’s effects on accessibility in government facilities.