RI Family Dollar Stores to Pay $7,500, Address ADA Compliance Issues Following Settlement with U.S.

RI Family Dollar Stores to Pay $7,500, Address ADA Compliance Issues Following Settlement with U.S.

Family Dollar Stores of Rhode Island will take steps to review, identify, and address accessibility issues inside and outside of all 29 locations to bring them into compliance with the American with Disabilities Act (ADA) as part of a Settlement Agreement with the United States.

Family Dollar Stores will also pay a civil penalty of $7,500, announced United States Attorney Aaron Weisman.

According to the Settlement, the stores have six months to fix all violations. 

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The Investigation

This agreement follows an investigation by the United States Attorney’s Office under Title III of the ADA, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability in the full and equal enjoyment of the goods, services, facilities, privileges, advantages, or accommodations of any place of public accommodation.

The United States’ investigation determined that Family Dollar stores in Rhode Island were not being maintained to ensure sufficient access for persons with disabilities, including access to accessible parking spaces, front entrances, and store aisles.

The investigation was prompted by complaints to the United States Attorney’s office by persons with disabilities who use mobility aids, such as wheelchairs and walkers.

According to the Settlement Agreement, Family Dollar Stores of Rhode Island, which cooperated fully with the investigation, has agreed to ensure that its employees will not place merchandise, shopping carts, boxes, and/or any other items in areas of its facilities, including both inside and outside of its stores, where such placement reduces or eliminates accessibility; will hire or designate an employee to serve as an ADA Coordinator with sufficient training and authority to undertake meaningful efforts to ensure that all Family Dollar Stores are in compliance with the Agreement; and within 60 days all regional, district and store managers and employees will undergo complete training regarding Title III of the ADA.