In 1999, the U.S. Supreme Court made an important civil rights decision in a case called Olmstead v. L.C. The case involved two women with disabilities who were living in a state hospital even though doctors said they could live in the community with the right supports. They argued that keeping them in an institution was unfair and discriminatory. The Court agreed and ruled that unnecessarily separating people with disabilities from the community violates the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

The Olmstead decision made it clear that people with disabilities have the right to receive state-funded services in community settings instead of institutions when community living is appropriate, the person wants it, and the state can reasonably provide the supports. The ruling recognized that living in institutions can limit a person’s ability to work, build relationships, and take part in everyday community life. Since 1999, the Olmstead decision has helped guide policies and services toward community living and inclusion.