Virginia § 51.5-42 - Discrimination against otherwise qualified persons with disabilities by educational institutions prohibited
Full text of Virginia Code of Virginia § 51.5-42 — Discrimination against otherwise qualified persons with disabilities by educational institutions prohibited, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 51.5-42. Discrimination against otherwise qualified persons with disabilities by educational institutions prohibited
A. No public educational institution or private educational institution, or agent of either, that is a recipient of state funds shall deny admission to the institution, or full and equal access to and enjoyment of any of its educational or extracurricular programs, to an otherwise qualified person with a disability because of such disability. For purposes of this section, an "otherwise qualified person with a disability" means a person with a disability who meets the requirements for admission to the institution and for participation in its programs and whose disability is unrelated to the person's ability to utilize and benefit from educational opportunities, programs, and facilities at the educational institution.
B. This section shall not apply to any public or private educational institution that is subject to the requirements of § 22.1-215 nor to any private elementary or secondary school or institution of higher education that is not a recipient of state funds.
1985, c. 421, § 51.01-42; 2014, c. 616.
Source: official Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia § 51.5-42
What does Code of Virginia § 51.5-42 cover?
Section 51.5-42 ("Discrimination against otherwise qualified persons with disabilities by educational institutions prohibited") is part of the Code of Virginia, the codified statutory law of Virginia. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Virginia § 51.5-42?
A common citation format is "Code of Virginia § 51.5-42" (Virginia). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Virginia law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Virginia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Virginia attorney.
How does Virginia § 51.5-42 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Virginia can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Virginia.