If a blind customer can’t place an order through a Domino’s website or app, does that put the pizza chain in violation of the American with Disabilities Act?
The Ninth Circuit says yes. But courts across the country have been split over the issue of online accessibility for the disabled for years, with thousands of similar lawsuits against businesses.
When the ADA was signed into law back in 1990, the internet wasn’t exactly considered a “place of public accommodation.” And although a visually impaired customer can still order a pizza by calling and receiving special assistance over the phone, the Ninth Circuit ruled that Domino’s in particular has to offer internet accommodations because it also has physical stores. Domino’s now wants the Supreme Court to step in.
Backers of the pizza chain, including the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, say that ADA accessibility guidelines for the internet is a gray area fueling lawsuits and hurting businesses.
Supporters say the internet is a crucial space to protect because it’s intertwined with everyday life, from official government statements, to online shopping and dating and more.
The case is Domino’s v. Robles and the Supreme Court will determine whether or not it will hear the petition when returning from summer recess.
Call us with your questions at 866-893-5722 or comment below.
With guest host Libby Denkmann
Guests:
Minh Vu, attorney and partner at Seyfarth Shaw; she leads the firm’s ADA Title III Specialty Practice Team and specializes in legal obligations of places of public accommodation
Curt Decker, executive director of the National Disability Rights Network, a nonprofit membership and advocacy organization in Washington D.C.