In a significant legal move that underscores the ongoing struggle for disability rights, a California resident has filed a lawsuit against a local business for alleged violations of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Unruh Civil Rights Act. The complaint was lodged by Anthony Bouyer in the Superior Court of California, County of Ventura, on February 26, 2025, targeting George Liquor Inc. and Buy and Save Investments.
Anthony Bouyer, who is represented by Joseph R. Manning Jr. of Manning Law, APC, accuses George Liquor Inc., a California corporation, and Buy and Save Investments, a general partnership, of maintaining conditions at their Simi Valley property that are not compliant with ADA standards. According to the complaint, Bouyer visited the property on September 13, 2024, where he encountered multiple accessibility barriers that hindered his ability to fully access the services offered. These included door hardware requiring tight grasping or twisting to operate and inadequate clear width in interior paths of travel. "The conditions present at the Business on the Date of Visit failed to comply with the applicable ADA Standards for Accessible Design," Bouyer alleges.
Bouyer's case highlights several key issues related to disability discrimination under both federal and state law. The plaintiff asserts that these violations have deprived him and others with disabilities of their right to full and equal access to public accommodations as guaranteed by law. Under the ADA, it is unlawful for businesses to fail in providing reasonable modifications necessary for individuals with disabilities unless such changes would fundamentally alter their services. Additionally, any violation of ADA rights also constitutes a breach under California's Unruh Civil Rights Act.
The lawsuit seeks various forms of relief from the court. Bouyer requests a declaratory judgment stating that the defendants' actions discriminated against him and other disabled persons by failing to ensure full accessibility at their business premises. He also seeks permanent injunctive relief compelling the defendants to rectify all existing ADA violations within 90 days or another timeframe deemed appropriate by the court. Furthermore, Bouyer demands statutory damages amounting to no less than $4,000 per occurrence as well as attorney fees and litigation costs.
This case brings attention once again to the persistent challenges faced by individuals with disabilities in accessing public spaces despite longstanding legal protections designed to prevent such discrimination. It underscores not only personal grievances but broader societal obligations towards inclusivity and equality.
Representing Bouyer is attorney Joseph R. Manning Jr., while details regarding defense counsel remain unspecified in this filing. The case has been assigned Case No. ZOZECUCROS9273 in Ventura Superior Court.