ADA Class Action Suit Filed Against Oregon Corrections Department Over Durable Medical Equipment Changes For Inmates With Disabilities

On April 20, 2021, Disability Rights Advocates and Portland attorney Lynn Walsh sued the Oregon Department of Corrections (ODOC) for charging inmates with disabilities for durable medical equipment, such as hearing aids and prosthetics. The lawsuit alleges that the state’s practice violates the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The named plaintiff was fitted with a prosthesis after a lower leg amputation eight years ago. He alleges that without the prosthesis he would not have access to the same programs and services in prison as inmates who are not disabled.

The ODOC does not charge inmates for temporary medical devices . . .