This week we have a Disability-related lawsuit supported by the U.S. government, a case of accessibility thwarted by the U.S. government, paratransit troubles in Kentucky and Fijian farmers advocating for Disability rights.
Edgewood company to pay $100,000 to settle disability discrimination suit
Racquel Bazos, Baltimore Sun
Another day, another lawsuit — except this one underscores that companies must provide reasonable accommodations.
The settlement comes after Smiths Detection Inc., a Maryland company that produces threat detection and security equipment, demoted a Disabled employee rather than providing an accommodation.
The case was brought before the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission because the employee asked for hearing protection at work due to hearing loss in one ear. Instead of receiving the accommodation, she was demoted — with a corresponding pay cut — and moved to a quieter part of the workplace. The settlement also requires Smiths to take corrective action.
The suit comes at a time when disability-related lawsuits are drawing increased attention. One of the primary ways to address violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act is through litigation. While some critics argue such lawsuits are overused, this case represents a clear violation.
During Donald Trump’s second term, there has also been concern that lawsuits like this could face additional obstacles. While the Trump administration has rolled back some disability-related supports — including changes affecting the Department of Education — and several states have moved to weaken independent living systems, cases like this are still moving forward.
From the Story: “Demoting an employee so as to avoid providing a reasonable accommodation does not discharge an employer’s obligation to provide a reasonable accommodation; it merely compounds the employer’s unlawful behavior.” — Debra Lawrence, EEOC regional attorney
Trump Administration Casts Doubt On New ADA Rules
Michelle Diament, Disability Scoop
In a widely reported move, the Trump administration has delayed enforcement of web accessibility requirements, extending a timeline that has already spanned more than a decade.
In 2024, the U.S. government adopted web accessibility standards for websites and apps under the Americans with Disabilities Act after a lengthy rulemaking process. Previously, the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines had served as a widely used benchmark, but there was no clear legal standard for compliance.
The new rules were set to take effect this month but have been delayed by one to two years, depending on the size of state and local governments. As a result, full compliance will not be required for all entities until April 2028.
From the Story: “Years of notice have not been enough, and now the department is rewarding inaction with more time.” — Maria Town, the CEO and president of the American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD)
Disability Rates Are Rising. Are Paratransit Services Ready?
Anabel Peterman, Next City/CivicLex
This story focuses on Lexington, Kentucky, a city that has struggled to meet the needs of Disabled public transit users. Officials cite concerns about supply chain disruptions, increased ridership as more people identify as Disabled, and the need for additional staff and vehicles to meet demand.
The story also highlights efforts to introduce innovative solutions. In Lexington, that includes collaboration with a local nonprofit to provide faster and more equitable service. Still, the program — a form of microtransit — faces some of the same barriers, including geographic limitations.
The piece offers a comprehensive overview of the challenges facing Disabled transit users, the consequences when systems fall short, and the steps being taken to address those gaps.
Farmers call for disability support in proposed Kava policy
Peceli Naviticoko, FBC News
One of the least recognized segments of the Disabled community is agricultural workers, including farmers. This piece highlights the work of Fijian farmers who are advocating for government collaboration to better include marginalized people, including Disabled community members, in the kava production chain.
Kava is a drink made from the roots of a pepper plant and holds cultural significance in the region. Used in ceremonies, it is also a growing domestic and international product, according to Tourism Fiji. Recent reporting from the Fiji Times estimates the kava industry is worth more than $190 million, making it the country’s most valuable export.
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