In a landmark settlement, Downtown Grand Casino in Las Vegas has agreed to pay $720,000 to resolve disability discrimination claims filed by the U.S. Department of Justice. The settlement comes after an investigation by the DOJ found that the casino had violated the Americans with Disabilities Act by failing to provide equal access to individuals with disabilities.
The investigation revealed that the casino had failed to provide accessible parking, restrooms, and hotel rooms for individuals with disabilities. In addition, the casino’s website was found to be inaccessible to individuals with visual impairments, making it difficult for them to book accommodations or learn about casino amenities.
Under the terms of the settlement, Downtown Grand Casino has agreed to make significant improvements to its facilities and website to ensure full compliance with the ADA. These improvements include adding accessible parking spaces, installing wheelchair ramps and handrails, and providing accessible bathroom facilities throughout the property. The casino has also committed to updating its website to make it fully accessible to individuals with disabilities.
In a statement, Acting U.S. Attorney Christopher Chiou praised the settlement as a victory for individuals with disabilities. “Everyone, regardless of ability, deserves equal access to public accommodations,” Chiou said. “We are pleased that Downtown Grand Casino has taken steps to remedy the violations identified in our investigation and has agreed to make its facilities and website accessible to individuals with disabilities.”
The settlement is a significant step forward in the fight for equal access for individuals with disabilities. It sends a clear message to business owners that they must comply with the ADA and provide equal access to all patrons, regardless of their abilities. The DOJ will continue to enforce the ADA and hold businesses accountable for discrimination against individuals with disabilities.
Downtown Grand Casino has also agreed to create a fund to compensate individuals who were harmed by the ADA violations. The fund will provide monetary relief to individuals who experienced discrimination at the casino, as well as compensate them for any out-of-pocket expenses they may have incurred as a result of the violations.
Overall, the settlement is a major victory for individuals with disabilities and a reminder to businesses that they have a legal and moral obligation to provide equal access to all patrons. Downtown Grand Casino’s commitment to improving accessibility at its facilities and website sets a positive example for other businesses to follow.