Recently, small businesses have reported a significant increase in ADA lawsuits filed against them. These lawsuits, which have burdened many local entrepreneurs, allege violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Given these developments, we want to empower you with the knowledge and tools to comply with the ADA and safeguard your business against these lawsuits.
⦁ Consult a Certified Access Specialist (CASp): One proactive step you can take is to have your business or property reviewed by a Certified Access Specialist (CASp) through the California Division of the State Architect (DSA). CASps inspect buildings and sites to ensure compliance with state and federal construction-related accessibility standards. By identifying and addressing accessibility issues early, you can significantly reduce your risk of legal liabilities. To learn more about CASp and their services, please visit www.dgs.ca.gov/casp
⦁ Website Accessibility: In our digital age, it’s essential to remember that accessibility extends beyond physical premises. Your website must also be inclusive and ADA-compliant. Recent data has shown a rising number of ADA website-compliant cases. To ensure your website meets the relevant standards and is accessible to people with hearing or vision impairments, seek guidance and information on web accessibility and compliance at www.ada.gov/resources/web-guidance.
⦁ Stay Informed: Knowledge is your most potent tool in protecting your business from potential lawsuits. Stay informed about ADA requirements, and watch for updates or changes to the law. Education is the key to understanding best practices for accessibility and compliance.
In addition to these steps, we are proud to announce that the City of Monterey Park Economic Development Division is actively developing educational programs and workshops on ADA compliance and how to avoid potential ADA lawsuits. We believe that knowledge is the key to preventing ADA violations, and we are committed to providing resources to help our local businesses thrive while ensuring inclusivity and accessibility for all.
We understand that small businesses are the backbone of our community, and we want to support your success. By being proactive and informed, we can work together to ensure a more accessible and equitable environment.
We will keep you updated on the progress of our educational programs, and we encourage you to reach out if you have any questions or concerns by contacting us at (626) 307-1385 or by emailing EconDev@montereypark.ca.gov.
Together, we can protect your business and ensure our community remains inclusive and welcoming.
