History of the Americans with Disabilities Act

Before the meeting: 

1. Familiarize yourself with the history of the Americans with Disabilities Act. 
2. Print one copy of the timeline template for each Cub Scout and enough copies of the branches of government images so that each Cub Scout has 3 of each image. Cut them out. 

During the meeting: 

1. Pass out the printed templates and branches of government images to each Cub Scout. 
2. Start the meeting with a simple explanation of the ADA and its importance. Ask Cub Scouts what disabilities are and how laws can help protect and support people with disabilities. 
3. Briefly explain to Cub Scouts the roles of the legislative, executive, and judicial branches of government. 
4. Tell Cub Scouts that you’re going to tell them about the history of the Americans with Disabilities Act. While you’re explaining it, they are to create their timeline including writing the date, writing a short description of what happened, and taping the image of the branch of government that was involved.  

Tip: The ADA National Network has a timeline of the history of the American Disabilities Act.  

• 1988 – Americans with Disabilities Act was introduced in Congress. 
• 1989 – ADA passed in the Senate. 
• 1990 – ADA passed in the House and was signed into law by President George H.W. Bush. 
• 1999 – Supreme Court heard several cases about the ADA. Their rulings narrowed the scope of the ADA. 
• 2008 – ADA Amendments Act was signed into law. It counteracted the actions of the Supreme Court rulings.