[blindlaw] ADA violations in Indian gaming casino

[ckrugman at sbcglobal.net]

I was contacted by a blind person who experienced a possible ADA violation at an Indian gaming casino here in central California. He was at a computer terminal playing bingo with his friend who was helping him as he could not read the computer screen. She advised him that he had a bingo and he called out as such. The casino staff did not want to award him his prize as he had stepped aside from the computer so his friend could read the screen and they were upset that someone was helping him play. He and his friend had frequented this casino on a regular basis and they were known to staff and other patrons. He attempted to explain the situation to a supervisor who was not helpful. I will be recommending that he file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Justice as it is my understanding that California ADA remedies and complaints do not apply as this is on Indian land. Is anyone aware of any similar problems with casinos both Indian or otherwise. I am especially interested as much of the new gaming technology is not accessible to blind patrons wanting to gamble. I personally raised the issue of accessibility to a member of another tribal council not involved in this incident and while he thought it was a valid concern he was not in a position to do anything about it. Any thoughts are appreciated.
Chuck Krugman, M.S.W., Paralegal
1237 P Street
Fresno ca 93721
559-266-9237