The Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy (FSBPT), based in Alexandria, Virginia, has agreed to settle allegations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The settlement concerns requests for accommodations for test candidates with disabilities during the National Physical Therapist Examination (NPTE).
The agreement addresses claims that FSBPT incorrectly reviewed accommodation requests and required excessive documentation from candidates. The ADA mandates that entities administering significant examinations ensure test results reflect an individual's ability rather than their disability.
As part of the settlement, FSBPT will pay $295,000 to individuals who were required to provide excessive documentation or were denied accommodations. Additionally, FSBPT will revise its process for reviewing disability-based testing accommodations to comply with ADA standards. This ensures that individuals with disabilities pursuing careers as physical therapists or assistants do not encounter discriminatory barriers.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Steve Gordon, Civil Rights Enforcement Coordinator for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia, investigated the matter. It is noted that these civil complaints are allegations only and no determination of civil liability has been made.
The Department of Justice offers publications to help entities comply with the ADA, including "ADA Requirements: Testing Accommodations." For further information on ADA compliance and resources, visit http://www.ada.gov or contact the Justice Department's toll-free ADA Information Line at 800-514-0301 or 800-514-0383 (TDD).
A copy of this press release is available on the United States Attorney’s Office website.