A Warner Robins fast-food staple is overhauling its policies after a disabled veteran was reportedly told his service animal wasn’t welcome in the dining room.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Georgia announced a formal resolution today with Askar Management Group and QSR Group Holdings, the entities behind the Church’s Chicken located at 1801 Watson Boulevard.
The federal investigation began when a veteran filed a complaint alleging that a restaurant employee refused to serve him unless he removed his service dog from the premises. Such an act violates the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which mandates that service animals be allowed in any area where the general public is permitted.
As part of the settlement, the franchise owners have agreed to pay a $2,000 civil penalty to the United States. Beyond the fine, the companies must now implement a strict service animal policy, train all managers and staff on these new rules, and post the policy clearly in public areas to ensure future compliance.
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“Ensuring access for individuals with disabilities, including permitting service dogs, is required by the ADA. Our office is dedicated to protecting these rights and ensuring proper accommodation for all,” said U.S. Attorney Will Keyes. He also noted that the franchise owners cooperated fully throughout the investigation, showing a commitment to fixing the accessibility issues at the Watson Boulevard location.
Under federal law, “public accommodations” like restaurants and bars are required to modify “no pet” policies to welcome service animals. Legally, business owners cannot demand documentation or special certifications for these animals.
This specific case was spearheaded by Civil Chief W. Taylor McNeill and Civil Rights Investigative Specialist Danyelle D. White.
For residents who believe their rights under the ADA have been stepped on, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Georgia accepts complaints at (478) 752-3511.
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