US DOJ v. Butler County, MO - Physical Accessibility Settlement

The U.S. Department of Justice reached a comprehensive settlement agreement with Butler County, Missouri as part of DOJ's Project Civic Access initiative. Project Civic Access is a nationwide effort by DOJ to ensure that state and local government facilities, programs, and services are accessible to people with disabilities under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act. The settlement addressed systematic physical accessibility barriers throughout Butler County's facilities and services. DOJ investigations typically identify barriers in courthouses, administrative buildings, polling places, parks, and other public facilities. Specific requirements typically included in Project Civic Access settlements: - Removal of physical barriers in county facilities including courthouses, administrative buildings, and service centers - Installation of accessible routes and entrances meeting ADA Standards - Provision of accessible parking spaces with proper signage and access aisles - Making restrooms accessible with proper clearances, grab bars, and accessible fixtures - Ensuring accessible communication including TTY/TDD availability and sign language interpreter services - Providing accessible voting locations and equipment - Ensuring program accessibility so all county services are available to people with disabilities - Establishing grievance procedures for accessibility complaints - Training staff on ADA requirements and serving customers with disabilities These settlements typically require jurisdictions to conduct self-evaluations, develop transition plans, and implement accessibility improvements over specified timeframes. The settlements are monitored by DOJ to ensure compliance.