NEW LONDON, Conn. — Sound Community Services, Inc., a behavioral health provider based in New London, has reached a settlement agreement with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Connecticut to resolve allegations of discrimination against an individual with a disability who uses a service animal, federal prosecutors announced Thursday.
The settlement stems from a complaint alleging that Sound Community made the complainant feel unwelcome because of their service animal. Specific allegations included requests for the animal’s license and vaccination record, and a refusal to arrange transportation for the individual due to the presence of their service animal.
Under the terms of the settlement, Sound Community has agreed to adopt a Service Animal Policy consistent with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), provide staff training on the policy, and post signage indicating “Service Animals Welcome.” The agreement also includes compensation for the complainant, contingent on the signing of a release.
The ADA prohibits private entities that operate public accommodations, such as health care facilities, from discriminating against individuals with disabilities, including those who use service animals. Federal law requires these entities to make reasonable modifications to policies, practices, and procedures to ensure accessibility.
U.S. Attorney Vanessa Roberts Avery praised the cooperative response from Sound Community in addressing the ADA violations without litigation. “This resolution highlights the importance of ensuring individuals with disabilities, including those who rely on service animals, can access services without barriers,” Avery stated.
The case was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stewart C. Dearing. Individuals wishing to report ADA violations in Connecticut may contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office or the Justice Department’s ADA information line.
This settlement emphasizes the ongoing enforcement of ADA protections to ensure equal access for people with disabilities.
