Section 504
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973
Section 504 (29 U.S.C. §794; 34 CFR Part 104) is a civil-rights statute prohibiting disability discrimination by any recipient of federal funds, including public schools. A student qualifies for a 504 Plan if they have a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits a major life activity; the plan documents accommodations (not specialized instruction). Unlike IDEA, Section 504 has no federal funding stream and broader eligibility.
Regulatory Citation
Example in Practice
A student with Type 1 diabetes receives a 504 Plan documenting blood-glucose monitoring accommodations, scheduled bathroom access, and permission to eat in class — no specialized instruction is provided.
Key Research Citations
- ·Zirkel (2020, J Disability Policy Studies 31(2)) — Section 504 litigation trends
Full bibliography available on the Research page.
Related Terms
This glossary entry is educational. It is not legal or clinical advice. Consult a qualified attorney or licensed clinician before making decisions that rely on this summary.