Laws & Standards

The University of New Hampshire is committed to creating inclusive and welcoming campuses for individuals with disability. This is expressed through a shared effort by all members of the UNH community to ensure equal access to employment, campus facilities, the world of knowledge and the many services, programs and activities offered in Durham, Manchester and Concord. UNH operates in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, amended 2008; the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, amended 1998; the Fair Housing Act, amended 1988; and New Hampshire State Laws. These laws protect individuals from discrimination based on disability. The implementing regulations enacted by the appropriate federal agencies guide the University, for example, in its employment practices, design and construction standards, print, electronic and telecommunication access, and transportation services.

In addition to following federal and state laws, the University encourages the application of Universal Design (UD) principles. Universal Design recognizes the diversity of the human condition and promotes inclusion without the need for adaptation or specialized design. A UD approach to the design of buildings, technology, programs and instruction ensures that all users benefit including those with a disability.

Federal and New Hampshire state laws are in place to prohibit discrimination based on disability. In addition to law, Federal and State agencies have adopted standards that articulate very specifically how access can be ensured. For example, to ensure access to facilities, the US Department of Justice has adopted the 2010 Standards for Accessible Design.

Members of the UNH community who believe they have experienced discrimination based on disability may refer to the UNH Discrimination and Discriminatory Harassment Policy or contact the UNH EEO/ADA Compliance Officer.

Case highlights and anecdotal stories of people with disabilities whose lives were changed by the ADA and the Department of Justice enforcement efforts can be read here.