The U.S. Department of Justice has filed a lawsuit against popular gym chain LA Fitness, accusing it of illegally discriminating against people with disabilities.
The lawsuit, filed Tuesday in the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California, accuses LA Fitness of violating the Americans with Disabilities Act by failing to provide people with equal access to the club’s services and facilities. There is.
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The Justice Department cited examples such as a malfunctioning pool elevator and a malfunctioning elevator, alleging that LA Fitness refused to resolve the issue despite complaints from some members. The complaint also charges that the gym chain charged some members extra fees to have someone help them access LA Fitness facilities.
“Access to fitness activities is critical to promoting the health and well-being of all Americans, including individuals with disabilities,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clark of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “For more than 30 years, the ADA has prohibited gyms and health clubs like LA Fitness from denying patrons with disabilities the opportunity to use and enjoy facilities available to patrons without disabilities. Through this lawsuit, the Department of Justice seeks to eliminate discriminatory barriers to LA Fitness and ensure equal access for people with disabilities to fully participate in local LA Fitness gyms and health clubs.”
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The Department of Justice is also seeking monetary damages for disabled people harmed by the claims against LA Fitness. Scripps News has reached out to the company for comment but has not yet received a response.
According to its website, LA Fitness “does not discriminate against individuals with disabilities and, consistent with applicable law, will take all steps necessary to provide members with disabilities full and equal enjoyment of our facilities and services.” claims.
Founded in California in 1984, LA Fitness is one of the nation’s largest gym chains, with approximately 700 stores across the United States.