Section 504 Is Under Attack—Here’s Why We Must Fight Back

As a mother to a disabled child, I know firsthand how critical accessibility and protections are for disabled individuals. But right now, a foundational civil rights law—Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act—is under attack. And if we don’t speak up, the protections that ensure disabled children receive an education, that hospitals provide accessible care, and that discrimination is illegal could be completely dismantled.

What’s Happening?

Seventeen states—including South Carolina—have filed a lawsuit (Texas v. Becerra) that seeks to repeal Section 504 entirely. If this lawsuit succeeds, it would strip away over 50 years of legal protections that ensure disabled people have access to education, healthcare, and public services.

Let’s be clear: this is an attack on disabled people. And the fact that Texas—the state leading this lawsuit—has a disabled governor makes this even more absurd. Governor Greg Abbott, who uses a wheelchair, personally benefits from the very protections this lawsuit is attempting to destroy.

What Exactly Is Section 504?

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act was the first federal law to guarantee disabled students access to education. It laid the groundwork for 504 Plans, which ensure students receive necessary accommodations to learn alongside their peers.

But Section 504 doesn’t just protect students. It also guarantees:

Accessible healthcare – Hospitals must provide accessible medical equipment and interpreters for Deaf and hard-of-hearing patients.

Protection from medical discrimination – Doctors cannot deny care based on disability.

Web accessibility – School and hospital websites must be accessible for disabled users.

If this lawsuit succeeds, all of these protections could disappear.

Who’s Behind This Attack?

The following 17 states are suing to repeal Section 504:

South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, West Virginia, Iowa, Kansas, Nebraska, South Dakota, Montana, Utah, Alaska, Indiana

This means that our own state is actively trying to take away the rights of disabled people. And we can’t let that happen.

What Can We Do?

If your state is part of this lawsuit, contact your Attorney General and demand they withdraw their support.

South Carolina residents, here’s how to contact our Attorney General: SC Attorney General Contact Form

When drafting your letter or voicemail, share your personal story. Explain why 504 protections matter—for your child, for your family, for your community.

Spread the word. Many people have no idea this lawsuit is happening.

Share this post. Talk about it. Make noise.

Support disability rights organizations who are fighting back.

The courts begin hearing arguments on February 25—so we have no time to waste. This lawsuit is a direct attack on the rights and dignity of disabled people, and we must do everything we can to stop it.

Will you stand with us? Our children’s futures depend on it.