Protecting Small Businesses from Predatory Website Lawsuits Act
Term Dictionary
If you come across any unfamiliar words while reading, these resources can help make everything clearer. Pick whichever one works best for you!
- Congress.gov Legislative Glossary - Comprehensive congressional terms
- NVFC Congressional Terms Glossary - Concise, easy-to-understand definitions
The gist
The bill blocks people from suing businesses over inaccessible websites or apps under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) until they finish a long Department of Justice (DOJ) complaint process.
Who wins, who loses
- Wins: small businesses, restaurants, and online retailers facing waves of ADA website lawsuits.
- Loses: blind and disabled users who rely on screen readers; disability rights lawyers.
What it does
- Requires written notice to the website or app owner before any legal action.
- Gives owners 180 days to fix accessibility issues before a DOJ complaint can be filed.
- Gives the Attorney General 360 days to investigate; inaction counts as a compliance ruling.
- Only after all steps fail can a person file a civil lawsuit.
Why should I care?
Supporters say small businesses get hit with copy-paste lawsuits over minor website glitches, draining money better spent fixing the site. Critics argue disabled users already wait too long for basic access, and adding 1-2 years of red tape lets companies stall forever. Teens who use accessibility tools or run side-hustle websites feel both sides. Where do you land? Vote below and use "Tell Your Rep" to make sure your voice reaches Congress.