What type of law is Section 504 considered?

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 is considered a civil rights law because it prohibits discrimination based on disability in programs and activities that receive federal financial assistance. The purpose of this legislation is to ensure that individuals with disabilities have equal access to educational opportunities and services, aligning with the broader principles of civil rights that aim for equality and fairness in society.

This law establishes that schools and other organizations must provide reasonable accommodations to support individuals with disabilities, thus promoting inclusivity and protecting the rights of those individuals. Unlike criminal law, which pertains to offenses against the state, civil rights law focuses on protecting individuals from discrimination and ensuring their rights are upheld. Additionally, tax law relates to the assessment and collection of taxes, while environmental law deals with regulations regarding the environment, both of which are unrelated to disability rights and protections provided under Section 504.