Roll R Way Agrees to Policy Changes Ensuring Access for Patrons with Disabilities Like Diabetes

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania has reached a civil settlement with Roll R Way, a family amusement center operating three locations in York, Chambersburg, and Donora. This agreement aims to guarantee that individuals with disabilities have equal access to the establishment’s services, in accordance with Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The resolution stems from multiple complaints alleging that families with children managing Type 1 Diabetes were denied entry due to the business’s strict “no outside food or drink” policy, which did not permit necessary dietary supplies for the children.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office received reports detailing instances where families were refused admittance because they sought to bring in small quantities of food and drink essential for regulating their children’s blood sugar levels. This refusal, based on a blanket policy against outside provisions, prevented these families from fully enjoying the services offered at Roll R Way. Such an inflexible policy, without provisions for reasonable accommodations, can also impact other patrons with dietary restrictions due to food allergies or other medical conditions, thereby hindering their equal access to the skating center.

Under the terms of the settlement, Roll R Way is obligated to modify its “no outside food or drink” policy. This revision will specifically incorporate a reasonable accommodation process for patrons with diabetes and other necessary dietary considerations. Furthermore, the company is required to conduct comprehensive training for its employees on this updated accommodation policy. Roll R Way will also implement measures to inform the public about the availability of such accommodations and how to request them when needed. As part of the settlement, Roll R Way will provide compensation of $500.00 to each of the complainant families.

Title III of the ADA mandates that public accommodations, including family amusement centers like Roll R Way, must not discriminate against individuals with disabilities. This means ensuring that people with disabilities are not excluded from the benefits of goods, services, privileges, facilities, and advantages provided to the general public. For those seeking more information on the Department of Justice’s efforts to combat discrimination or about the ADA, resources are available online at ADA.gov. Individuals can also contact the Department of Justice’s toll-free ADA information line for assistance. Residents within the Middle District of Pennsylvania who wish to report potential civil rights violations can reach out to the office’s Civil Rights Coordinator.

The settlement agreement was negotiated to avoid the expenses and complexities associated with legal proceedings. It is important to note that this agreement does not constitute an admission of liability by Roll R Way. The government’s representation in this matter was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Butler.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania

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