Brown University, ADA Violations, Rhode Island 2024

Brown University to Pay $684,000 for Denying Students with Mental Health Disabilities Equal Access

Brown University, a prestigious institution in Rhode Island, has been accused of violating the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) by denying students with mental health disabilities equal access to educational programs. According to a recent investigation, dozens of undergraduate students were denied readmission to the university after taking medical leave for mental health reasons, despite meeting the requirements for returning to campus life.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Rhode Island and the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division launched an investigation into Brown University’s policies and practices, finding that the university had consistently denied readmission to students with mental health disabilities. The investigation revealed that between fall 2012 and spring 2017, dozens of students were denied readmission, despite their treatment providers reporting that they were ready to resume their studies and participate in campus life.

Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke stated, “Students with disabilities deserve access to equal opportunity to help ensure that they can achieve their educational goals. The Justice Department is committed to ensuring that colleges and universities do not exclude students on the basis of their disability or because they took time to receive the treatment they needed to thrive.”

As a result of the investigation, Brown University has agreed to revise its undergraduate leave policies and practices to be consistent with Title III of the ADA. The university will also provide training on Title III of the ADA to all faculty and staff responsible for evaluating or making decisions about requests to take or return from leaves of absence. In addition, Brown University will pay $684,000 to compensate the undergraduate students who were harmed.

Acting United States Attorney Richard Myrus emphasized the importance of universities fulfilling the ADA’s promise of equal opportunity for individuals with disabilities. He stated, “Instead of imposing extra barriers on students seeking to return to campus from medical leave, universities must reasonably accommodate students who are treating their mental health disabilities.”

The settlement agreement is a significant victory for students with mental health disabilities, ensuring that they have equal access to educational programs at Brown University. It serves as a reminder to colleges and universities across the country to ensure that their medical leave policies do not discriminate against students with mental health disabilities.

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