Ohio Businesses and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Ohio businesses are required to provide equal and full access to individuals with disabilities. To comply with the ADA, businesses must make reasonable accommodations to ensure individuals with disabilities have equal access to and use of their goods and services.

One of the primary requirements for Ohio businesses to comply with the ADA is to remove physical barriers that may prevent individuals with disabilities from accessing goods, services, or facilities. This includes providing wheelchair ramps, accessible parking spaces, and properly trained staff to assist individuals with disabilities. Businesses must also ensure that their websites and other digital offerings are accessible to individuals with disabilities by complying with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.0.

Additionally, Ohio businesses are required to provide auxiliary aids and services, such as sign language interpreters, to individuals with disabilities as necessary to ensure effective communication.

There are a few exceptions to the ADA, which include businesses with fewer than 15 employees, religious institutions, and private clubs. However, even these businesses must comply with certain provisions of the ADA, such as ensuring that their facilities are accessible to individuals with disabilities.

If a business is found to be in violation of the ADA, it may be subject to fines and lawsuits. It is important for businesses to regularly review their policies and procedures to ensure they comply with the ADA and to seek legal advice if they have questions or concerns.

In order to ensure compliance, businesses may consider conducting accessibility audits and obtaining guidance from legal professionals with expertise in disability law. Making a good faith effort to comply with the ADA can help businesses avoid costly legal disputes and promote equal access for individuals with disabilities.