Justice Pass on Chance to Reconsider Deaf Woman’s Damages Case

The US Supreme Court Tuesday turned down a deaf woman’s request to reconsider if emotional distress damages are available for violations of federal disability discrimination laws.

The top court in late April affirmed the dismissal of Jane Cummings’ suit against a physical therapy provider that refused to supply an American Sign Language interpreter during a visit, allegedly violating her right to effective communication in violation of the Rehabilitation Act and Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act.

Cummings sought only emotional distress damages. But both laws are silent on awarding damages for intangible injuries, such as embarrassment and humiliation, the ...