Dozens Of Disabled EP Residents Protest, Demand Compliance With ADA

EL PASO, Tx. – Dozens of disabled El Pasoans protested outside a popular local restaurant to demand its compliance of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

The demonstration outside the Chico’s Tacos at 5305 Montana Ave. coincided with the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act,signed into legislation 17 years ago today.

Patrons in wheelchairs say they are unable to access the restaurant’s bathrooms because of a step. Also, the benches inside the restaurant are bolted to the floor making it difficult to accommodate anyone who uses a wheelchair.

Civil rights lawyer Briana Stonerepresenting the group says non-compliance isn’t just offensive…it’s illegal:

“The ADA says inside a restaurant there must be at least 5% accessible seating, which means people in wheelchairs have to be able to sit in there with everyone else. Here, none of the tables are accessible so they’re in violation of the law.”

Five other businesses are also being sued by the Paso del Norte civil rights project. They include the Fort Bliss Econolodge, two centralEl Paso Whataburger locations, the Take 5 Piano Lounge and theMCM Grande Hotel in Odessa.