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Left Outside: How Some Businesses Fail to Comply with the ADA, featuring Immigrant Youth Advocates

Even though the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) became law more than 30 years ago, many businesses still don’t follow it. This means people with disabilities often can’t get into buildings, use websites, or access services like everyone else. Some business owners may not know the rules, some may not understand them, and others might think it’s too expensive to make changes. But whatever the reason, the result is the same—people with disabilities are left out. 

ADA Violations

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a law that protects the rights of people with disabilities. It says that public places, businesses, schools, and jobs must be accessible and fair to everyone. The goal is to make sure people with disabilities have the same chances as everyone else. But even today, many places still aren’t following the rules. 

The YouTube video, "Lawsuits Claim ADA Violations, Business Owner Says it's 'Not True',  investigates a series of lawsuits filed by Marcus Ingram, who has initiated over 100 legal actions against businesses across Georgia, Florida, Ohio, and South Carolina, alleging violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). These lawsuits often cite issues such as inaccessible bathrooms, tables, and entry routes for individuals using wheelchairs.  



The Penalties for Not Complying with the ADA


Following the ADA isn’t just about avoiding fines. It’s about treating people with respect and making sure everyone has equal access. When businesses care about their customers, they find ways to include people of all abilities. 

"What are the Risks & Penalties for a Business Not Being ADA Compliant?" from Vortex Doors outlines the legal and financial consequences businesses may face if they fail to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).​

These include:


Legal Liability: Non-compliant businesses are susceptible to lawsuits from individuals with disabilities, especially if injuries occur due to accessibility barriers.


State and Local Enforcement: State and local governments may impose additional or stricter penalties for non-compliance.


Federal Penalties: Businesses can incur fines up to $75,000 for the first ADA violation and up to $150,000 for subsequent violations.  

What are your thoughts on businesses that don't follow the ADA? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below!

Featuring...

Immigrant Youth Advocates


NJCIC's Immigrant Youth Advocates is a 2-year leadership development and narrative change program for first- and second-generation immigrant youth between the ages of 18-22.  It's an invitation to engage in conversations and explore the intricacies of the immigrant youth experience in a safe space.


1. What language is the program in? The program is fully in English. We hope in the future to expand the program for additional multilingual cohorts.

2. When are the meetings? The meetings are Monday nights at 7pm. The time can change based on the religious observances of the advocates.

3. I go to school out-of-state. Can I participate? Yes! As long as you are resident of NJ, you can participate. 

4. How long can I participate in the program? Advocates have a term limit of 2 years in order to allow the program to include more young immigrants over the years, but you’ll always be part of our alumni network! 


You can apply for the Cohort here: 
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd6yNnPBsnrZ6ZLd7UUjDYwbmGe5OaytT_wzKMk7-xSg-mPWQ/viewform?pli=1




Applications are due 4/30.



Featuring...

Empower Tomorrow: Youth Advocacy Summit 2025





This FREE conference will focus on Leadership Advocacy Skills: Understanding School to Adult Life Transition and Healthcare/ Wellness Goals

Join us in person to learn strategies and resources from SPAN!

There will be a variety of Exhibitors providing resources.


***PLEASE READ***

Parents and caregivers (who can attend separate tracks) must accompany the conference with their young adult/youth. SPAN does not provide support to individuals, but they are welcome to provide their support person.


***DISCLAIMER***

No youth/young adults can be left unattended or dropped off at the event at any time.


Contact Nicole Pratt at npratt@spanadvocacy.org for any questions.


Date and Time: Saturday, April 26 · 8:30am - 3pm EDT

Location: Mercer County College Conference Center

1200 Old Trenton Road West Windsor Township, NJ 08550


Register To Attend: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/empower-tomorrow-youth-advocacy-summit-2025-tickets-1236331644229?aff=ebdsoporgprofile


The SPAN Youth Chat

Join us virtually on May 7th from 4:15 to 5:00 PM with the SPAN Youth Engagement Team on a topic about advocacy and youth empowerment. More details to come. 



Resources...

Link to SPAN's website: www.spanadvocacy.org
Link to SPAN's Youth in the Know Resource Page: Youth in the Know
We're here for you! Call SPAN if you need assistance: 1-800-654-7726.

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