This report, generated by a Congressional hearing, analyzes the goals intended for the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the impact on those it was intended to protect. It also discusses the practical effects of the ADA, recent Supreme Court decisions and judicial trends in ADA enforcement, substance abuse and the ADA, and the ADA's coverage of individuals with psychiatric and mental disabilities. The report concludes with a chapter of findings and recommendations of the Commission on Civil Rights. These recommendations include: (1) restoring the intended vision of the ADA; (2) providing adequate resources to those agencies charged with enforcing its provisions; (3) enhancing education for individuals and businesses as to rights and responsibilities created by the ADA; (4) providing further incentives through the Social Security Administration for individuals with disabilities to return to the workforce; and (5) providing economic incentives for businesses that make facilities accessible or accommodate individuals with disabilities. Individual chapters discuss the road to the ADA, the effects of the ADA, judicial trends in ADA enforcement, substance abuse under the ADA, psychiatric disabilities and the ADA, and findings and recommendations. (Individual chapters contain references.) (DB)