U.S. Rep. Sam Graves (R-MO) on Feb. 3 sponsored legislation aimed at protecting small businesses from what he calls predatory lawsuits over website accessibility, while still strengthening access for Americans with disabilities.
The Protecting Small Businesses from Predatory Website Lawsuits Act, H.R. 7328, would give business owners time to fix website accessibility issues before they can be sued under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
“Small businesses should not be targeted and exploited for a quick cash grab. They should not have to choose between paying a lawyer or paying their employees,” Rep. Graves said. “These lawsuits are not about helping or ensuring access for customers, they are about making money off hardworking business owners. This bill gives small businesses much-needed protection.”
The congressman says that the bill responds to a growing wave of demand letters sent to small businesses in north Missouri and across the country, often alleging noncompliance through what critics describe as copy-and-paste claims.
Under the current system, small businesses can face immediate legal threats without an opportunity to correct issues, forcing many mom-and-pop shops to choose between costly legal battles or quick cash settlements, according to Rep. Graves.
If enacted, H.R. 7328 would amend the ADA to require that a website owner or operator be formally notified of alleged noncompliance before a civil lawsuit can be filed. After receiving notice, the business would have 180 days to bring its website into compliance with ADA standards.
The measure has been referred for consideration to the U.S. House Energy and Commerce Committee.