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Cosmetology School Settles HIV Discrimination Case
A federal investigation has revealed that Modern Hairstyling Institute Inc. in Bayamón, Puerto Rico, discriminated against an HIV-positive applicant by denying her enrollment. The complainant alleged that the cosmetology school refused to accept her due to her HIV status.
According to sources, the Justice Department initiated its investigation in response to the allegations and found that Modern Hairstyling Institute Inc. had indeed discriminated against the applicant. The school’s cooperation in the investigation was characterized as ‘important’ in resolving the matter promptly.
Under the terms of the settlement agreement, Modern Hairstyling Institute Inc. has agreed to offer enrollment to the complainant, cease requesting information about HIV/AIDS status from future applicants, and provide training to all employees about discrimination on the basis of disability.
As part of the settlement, Modern Hairstyling Institute Inc. will pay a $5,000 civil penalty to the United States and $8,000 in damages to the complainant. The school’s actions have been deemed a clear violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
‘It is critical that we continue to work to eradicate discriminatory and stigmatizing treatment towards individuals with HIV based on unfounded fears and stereotypes,’ said Thomas E. Perez, Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Rights Division. ‘The ADA clearly protects individuals with HIV and other disabilities from this kind of exclusion or marginalization.’
Title III of the ADA prohibits public accommodations, such as Modern Hairstyling Institute Inc., from excluding people with disabilities, including those with HIV, from enjoying the services, goods and accommodations provided.
Those interested in learning more about federal disability rights statutes can call the Justice Department’s toll-free ADA information line at 800-514-0301, 800-514-0383 (TTY), or access the ADA website at www.ada.gov.
Key Facts
- State: Federal
- Category: Public Corruption
- Source: DOJ Press Release ↗
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