Webster Bank resolves ADA complaint of deaf person
Webster Bank has agreed to accept video relay calls at all of its branches as the result of a complaint made by a deaf person who said the bank would not do business with him using the interpretive service, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office.
The agreement resolves a complaint that the bank was not in compliance with the Americans With Disabilities Act.
U.S. Attorney Deirdre M. Daly said in a news release that since the complaint was filed, the bank has worked cooperatively to develop and amend its policies and practices to comply with the ADA and the Department of Justice's implementing regulations.
"Individuals who have disabilities must not be denied equal access to the services offered by financial institutions," Daly said. "Webster Bank's cooperation during this investigation reflects the bank's commitment to equal access and effective communication with all of its customers, including those with disabilities."
The agreement requires Webster Bank to accept video relay calls in all of its branches and to amend its policies, practices and training to ensure the removal of barriers to access at its branches.
Daly said her office has received complaints alleging that other financial institutions have refused to communicate with individuals with disabilities who use relay services to communicate by telephone. The refusals suggest a discriminatory practice, Daly said, and her office has been reviewing Connecticut banks to ensure they are complying with their obligations under the ADA.
The Americans With Disabilities Act prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities by businesses that serve the public. Among other things, the ADA requires financial institutions, accountants, lawyers, doctors and other businesses to provide auxiliary aids and services that are necessary for effective communication.
For individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, auxiliary aids include qualified sign language or oral interpreters, use of relay services, computer-assisted real-time transcription and, for simple communications, the exchange of written notes.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Ndidi N. Moses handled the matter with the assistance of the Disability Rights Section of the U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division.
Individuals who believe they may have been victims of discrimination can file a complaint with the U.S. Attorney's Office by calling (203) 821-3700.
Comment threads are monitored for 48 hours after publication and then closed.