Public entity
Generally speaking, a public entity is a state or local government, as well as any agency, office, or department run by a state or local government. Examples include public libraries, city police departments, community colleges, public schools, county social services, and state vocational rehabilitation agencies.
[ Read: The ADA and Title II Public Entities ]
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Infographics
Title II: What is a Public Entity?
!['Title II: What Is a Public Entity?'
Title II of the ADA applies to 'Public Entities.'
These include: any state or local government, departments and agencies of state or local government, and commuter rail authorities and AMTRAK.
If you have questions about the Americans with Disabilities act, contact us at 1-800-949-4232.](https://s3.amazonaws.com/production-northeastada-org/local/en/IG-2019-12-13-titleII-entity@2x.png)
Access to Public Services
![Infographic that says: Access to Public Services
Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) applies to public entities and their programs, services, and activities.
The ADA defines a public entity as:
- Any state or local government
- Any department, agency, special purpose district, or other instrumentality of a state or states or local government
- The National Railroad Passenger Corporation (Amtrak) and any commuter authority
What are some examples?
- Town libraries
- City police departments
- County government offices
- Public schools and universities
- City subways](https://s3.amazonaws.com/production-northeastada-org/local/en/NortheastADA-IG-2023-12-access-to-public-services.png)
Program Access
![Social media image that says: What is program access under Title II of the ADA? It's an equal opportunity for a person with a disability to benefit from a public entity's programs or services. The photo shows a person smiling in a swimming pool. The photo also shows that he has an arm without a hand.](https://s3.amazonaws.com/production-northeastada-org/local/en/NortheastADA-IG-2024-23-program+access.jpg)