Episode 48: Food Allergies and The Rights of Individuals with Allergy-Related Disabilities Under the ADA

A food allergy may be considered a disability under Federal laws, such as Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Some individuals with food allergies have a disability, particularly those with more significant or severe responses to certain foods.

In this episode, Dr. Daniel Newman - Executive Director of Academic Support Services, and ADA/504 Coordinator at Lesley University, discusses how the settlement agreement between the U.S. Department of Justice and Lesley University in Massachusetts helped to increase awareness among higher education professionals that food allergies and celiac disease may qualify as a disability under the ADA. Dr. Newman will also discuss the challenges and solutions for universities in accommodating and supporting students with specific allergens.