The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed into law on July 26, 1990. It is one of the most comprehensive pieces of civil rights legislation that prohibits discrimination and guarantees that people with disabilities have the same opportunities as everyone else to participate in the mainstream of American life - to enjoy employment opportunities, to purchase goods and services, and to participate in State and local government programs and services. ADA is an "equal opportunity" law for people with disabilities.