The U.S. Justice Department has launched a lawsuit against Irvine-based Fitness International LLC, operating as LA Fitness, over claims that the company is discriminating against people with disabilities at its fitness centers nationwide. LA Fitness, which maintains a network of nearly 700 gym locations, is facing allegations of violating the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a federal law that mandates public accommodations, such as gym and fitness clubs, to provide equal access and facilities for people with disabilities.
According to a statement from the Justice Department, the lawsuit seeks to firmly stop LA Fitness from continuing to discriminate against individuals with disabilities, which includes ensuring that the company makes its facilities and equipment accessible. Citing the lengthy history of the ADA, the suit aims to fundamentally change LA Fitness's approach to accessibility and remove any extra fees that have been unfairly imposed on people with disabilities, hampering their right to access fitness services.
“Ensuring accessibility is key to safeguarding civil rights for all Americans,” U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada emphasized in the Justice Department's announcement. “Our office is committed to ensuring that people with disabilities have access to public accommodations by enforcing the protections afforded by the Americans with Disabilities Act.” Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke echoed this sentiment, adding, “Access to physical fitness activity is crucial for promoting the health and well-being of all individuals, including those with disabilities.”
The suit not only aims to compel LA Fitness to address the alleged discriminatory practices but also to provide monetary compensation for those affected. The Justice Department has outlined that the compensation should cover any individuals who have faced direct harm due to LA Fitness's barriers, including broken accessibility equipment or those who were unjustly required to pay additional fees for the assistance they needed at its clubs. If anyone has experienced difficulty in accessing an LA Fitness gym or fitness club because of a disability or was charged an extra assistant fee, they are encouraged to contact the Justice Department through a dedicated hotline or email address provided in the statement.
Assistant United States Attorneys Matthew Barragan and Margaret Chen, alongside attorneys from the Disability Rights Section of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, are responsible for managing this case. The public can find further information on civil rights violations and ADA compliance on the official websites of the Justice Department and the United States Attorney’s Office's Civil Rights Section. Public Information Officer Ciaran McEvoy, from the Justice Department, is available to field any inquiries and provide additional details concerning the lawsuit and its implications for LA Fitness and its patrons.