A justice Department lawsuit alleging disability discrimination against the Gates Chili Central School District has been settled.The lawsuit was brought two years ago when a student with disabilities wanted to use a service dog in the school, and the district said "no" unless her mother paid for a dog handler. The parent sued, claiming a violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act.
The Gates Chili School District says the settlement confirms its position that it did not discriminate, and is not responsible for the care or supervision of service animals.
But the U.S. Attorney's Office says Gates Chili has revised its Service Animal Policy so it's consistent with the ADA, and with the court rulings in the case. The district also agreed to provide reasonable modifications to facilitate use of a service dog by a student with a disability. Finally, Gates Chili will pay the student's mother $42,000 for out of pocket expenses and damages for emotional distress.