The U.S. Department of Education recently announced its intent to amend the regulations implementing Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 to “strengthen and protect rights for students with disabilities.” While the ADA Amendments of 2008 broadened the definition of disability under Section 504, the regulations have not been altered since 1977. The DOE has not directly revealed the particular changes it may be contemplating, however its references to mental health issues and school discipline hint that these issues may be among those addressed through the regulatory changes.
