Shira M. Blank and Joshua A. Stein, Members of the Firm in the Employment, Labor & Workforce Management practice, in the firm’s New York office, co-authored an article in SHRM, titled “Viewpoint: Accessibility Challenges Facing Public Accommodations.”

Following is an excerpt:

Businesses resuming onsite operations during the pandemic must do so while balancing the safety of employees and patrons and complying with Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and applicable state and local laws.

Here are some accessibility issues that public accommodations—businesses open to the public—should consider. ...

  1. As businesses increasingly rely on technology to enhance safety, accessible-technology lawsuits surge.
  2. Policies requiring customers to cover their faces for safety may expose businesses to disability-discrimination claims.
  3. When requiring masks, provide effective communication to individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing.
  4. Social distancing impacts businesses' obligations under the 2010 ADA standards.
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