ADA Compliance in the Retail Industry

Using technology to promote efficiency and productivity has become an integral part of the way retailers do business. To stay competitive, retailers must utilize the latest technology and ensure that in doing so they are complying with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)'s non-discrimination requirements. Websites, point of sale devices, self-service kiosks, and mobile apps are just some of the new technologies that present great opportunities for retailers, but also legal risks.

The risks arise in part from uncertainty in the law. In the last few years, there has been a definitive uptick in the number of complaints, lawsuits, and enforcement actions relating to the accessibility of electronic information technology by individuals with disabilities. The Department of Justice has always pressured businesses behind the scenes to make their websites accessible, but is now actively pursuing enforcement actions, even though the DOJ has not issued even proposed regulations that would define what constitutes an accessible website.

In this seminar, Kristina Launey of Seyfarth Shaw LLP provides necessary legal background and tips and strategies to help retailers spot and manage the risks they face in complying with the Americans with Disabilities Act's, and other applicable laws', accessibility requirements for technology.

Learning Objectives: 

1. Provide an overview of the statutory and regulatory background: the ADA and other accessibility laws
2. Specifically discuss the ADA's legal requirements for, and application to, technologies, including point of sale devices, self-service kiosks, websites, and mobile applications
3. Discuss recent lawsuits, enforcement actions, and settlements concerning these technologies
4. Observe practical steps retailers can take to comply with ADA requirements and minimize litigation exposure