HARRISBURG, Penn.–With credit unions across Pennsylvania receiving demand letters from a California law firm alleging that their websites are out of compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Pennsylvania Credit Union Association said it has replied by sending a letter requesting the firm cease and desist its misleading communications.
According to the PCUA, the letter from Pacific Trial Attorneys threatens a class action lawsuit against the credit union unless a resolution is reached.
“The letters and corresponding threat of litigation take advantage of the absence of any binding federal standards on website accessibility,” the PCUA noted.
As CUToday.info has reported, the United States Department of Justice has delayed indefinitely regulatory guidance that would have provided clarity on the law. Several related lawsuits have also been filed in federal court in Pennsylvania against Pennsylvania credit unions over ADA compliance.
In its letter, the PCUA said it is asking that the basis for claims be clarified. The letter also outlines how credit unions are proactively taking steps to implement measures that will improve and enhance the accessibility of their websites.
"We are here to support our members," Association President and CEO Patrick Conway said in a statement first reported by the PCUA. "We believe there is value in responding to ADA demand letters and we will continue exploring alternative courses of action. We want to end these types of frivolous claims."
The association said it is also working with members of Pennsylvania’s congressional delegation to encourage the Department of Justice to reconsider its position on delaying much needed regulations, as well as other collective efforts to protect its members from the threat of costly litigation.