Another appeals court rules in favor of CUs in frivolous ADA suit

CUNA, Leagues and credit unions achieved their third victory at the appellate level Tuesday as the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals dismissed a frivolous lawsuit alleging website noncompliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). CUNA and the Michigan Credit Union League (MCUL) filed an amicus brief in support of the two credit unions in the lawsuit, Aeroquip CU and Belle River Community CU.

Credit unions around the country have been hit with similar suits alleging violations of the ADA, however the statute does not contain specific website accessibility guidelines.

“We’re grateful that another appellate-level court has dismissed this latest lawsuit designed to exploit a law that protects disabled Americans,” said CUNA President/CEO Jim Nussle. “These outcomes in the courts are encouraging, and CUNA will continue its engagement with policymakers and regulators to secure much-needed clarity on how credit unions can protect themselves from similar legal actions while ensuring website accessibility.”

The Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals ruled in favor of an Illinois credit union in July, and the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals made a similar ruling in January. These decisions set precedent in their respective circuits.

 

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