Disability

Ensuring Fairness: Why Misinterpretation of Disability Law Should Not Block Foster Parent Opportunities

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In Washington, D.C., discussions surrounding disability law and its implications for foster parent eligibility have sparked considerable debate. Advocates are urging a careful interpretation of legislation designed to protect the rights of individuals with disabilities, emphasizing that it should not inadvertently exclude potential foster parents who might otherwise offer stable homes to children in need. The conversation began after reports surfaced that some agencies were misapplying the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) when screening candidates for foster parenting. This has raised concerns among child welfare organizations and disability rights advocates alike. The ADA was enacted … Read more

Historic Resolution: Disability Rights Oregon Triumphs in Grants Pass Lawsuit

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GRANTS PASS, Ore. — A lawsuit initiated by Disability Rights Oregon against the city of Grants Pass has concluded, spotlighting issues surrounding the treatment of individuals with disabilities within municipal facilities. The legal battle, which has drawn attention to disability rights in the area, highlighted systemic problems that advocates claim were long overlooked. The litigation centered on claims that the city failed to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act, particularly regarding physical accessibility in public places. Disability Rights Oregon contended that several locations within the city did not meet federal standards, obstructing access for … Read more

Eye Doctor Secures $4 Million Verdict Against NYU Langone for Disability Discrimination After COVID-19 Battle

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A Manhattan jury has awarded $4 million to Dr. Habeeb Ahmad, an eye doctor from Long Island, who accused NYU Langone Health System of discrimination following his disability due to COVID-19. The jury’s decision outlines significant financial compensation, including $2 million for emotional distress, $1.775 million in back and front pay, and $250,000 in punitive damages against both NYU Langone and NYU’s Grossman School of Medicine. Ahmad’s direct supervisor, Dr. Doug Lazzaro, and labor relations manager Scott Mellynchuk were also named in the lawsuit. NYU Langone expressed disappointment with the verdict, with spokesperson Steve Ritea … Read more

Federal Judge Mandates Major Overhaul of San Diego Jails to Ensure Disability Compliance Following Landmark Settlement

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A federal judge in San Diego has given the green light to a significant settlement mandating extensive reforms within the Sheriff’s Office regarding jail conditions for individuals with disabilities. This ruling follows a lawsuit filed in 2022, which alleged pervasive violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) across the county’s jails. The lawsuit highlighted severe shortcomings in the facilities, asserting that none of the jails complied with ADA guidelines. Among the troubling accusations were instances in which deputies failed to provide necessary accommodations for disabled individuals. Notably, a deaf man struggled to receive a … Read more