Under federal law, which statements define a person with a disability?

• A. Has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits major life activities
• B. Has a record of such an impairment
• C. Is regarded as having such an impairment
• D. All of the above

Answer: (D)

Under federal law, disability status is defined in three ways: an actual physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities; having a record of such an impairment; or being regarded as having such an impairment. The major life activities include things like walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing, learning, concentrating, and working. “Substantially limits” means the impairment must significantly affect the ability to perform these activities, not just cause a minor or temporary limitation. The three-prong approach ensures protection for people who currently have a disability, those with a history of one, and those who are perceived as having one. Because all three statements reflect these protections, the correct answer is that all of the above.