Olmstead v. L.C.

Olmstead v. L.C. was a landmark Supreme Court case decided in 1999 that concerned the rights of individuals with mental disabilities. The Court ruled that under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), states must provide community-based treatment to people with disabilities rather than confining them in institutions when appropriate. This decision emphasized the importance of integrating individuals into society and maintaining their autonomy, reinforcing that unnecessary institutionalization is discriminatory. Essentially, it affirmed the right of individuals with disabilities to live in the community rather than being isolated in facilities, promoting their dignity and independence.