Which legislative act supports the rights of individuals with disabilities, including those with ASD?

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is designed specifically to ensure that children with disabilities, including those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), receive a free appropriate public education that meets their unique needs. This legislation emphasizes the importance of individualized education plans (IEPs) tailored to support children’s educational objectives, providing necessary resources and services to facilitate their learning in the least restrictive environment. IDEA protects the rights of these students to ensure they have equal access to educational opportunities, which is crucial for their development and integration into society.

Other acts like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 do provide important protections and support for individuals with disabilities at large, including workforce rights, but IDEA is specifically focused on the educational rights and needs of children with disabilities. The Social Security Act primarily addresses financial benefits, which, while important, does not directly pertain to educational services. Thus, the focus of IDEA is what makes it the correct answer in relation to the question about supporting the rights of individuals with ASD in an educational context.