Minnesota settles disability equality case with parent company of LA Fitness

The Minnesota Department of Human Rights (MDHR) has reached a settlement agreement with the company that operates LA Fitness.

MDHR says Fitness International has agreed to take measures that ensure all people, including those with disabilities, can use its fitness centers without experiencing discrimination.

The case arose after MDHR learned a New Brighton LA Fitness removed non-slip rubber mats that helped a man with a mobility-related disability. When he asked for them to be reinstalled or have handrails added, the business ignored his requests, MDHR said, which violated the state’s Human Rights Act for disability discrimination.

“Ensuring that public places are accessible to people with disabilities is critical to building an inclusive and thriving Minnesota,” MDHR Commissioner Rebecca Lucero said in a statement. “This case is a reminder to all businesses that when spaces are accessible, when they are universally designed, they not only benefit people with disabilities, but in many situations, everyone using those spaces benefits.”

Anyone who experiences discrimination due to a disability can call the state’s Discrimination Helpline at 1-833-454-0148 or complete an online form.