LETTER TO THE EDITOR: Education needed on ADA compliance

As a 60-year-old individual with a disability, I walk with a cane and have a professional service dog.

On April 8, 2025, I was denied entry to (a laundromat in Rio Rancho). I was informed that my service dog had to leave because of a policy against animals. I explained he was a service dog, but the staff did not care. I informed them that, under federal and state laws, my service dog is considered a mobility device; however, they still refused to acknowledge this. I retrieved the ADA guidelines from the official website, yet my efforts were ignored. Frustrated, I called the Rio Rancho Police.

When the officers arrived, I explained the situation. They spent over 30 minutes discussing the issue with the two employees and the owner. Despite my explanation, the owner remained adamant about not allowing animals, including service dogs, and insisted that both my dog and I had to leave. I was denied access to the washing machines. The police failed to enforce the law or my rights, denying me entry as any person without disabilities would have.

Throughout this ordeal, my dog and I acted professionally. The officers' discussion focused primarily on the needs of the staff and the owner, whereas I received only three to four minutes of their time. The police did not speak with other customers, and my call for help was logged as a case of disorderly conduct. This reflected a lack of understanding of the ADA and state laws regarding service dogs. Additionally, the laundromat staff showed a lack of knowledge and compassion for individuals with disabilities who rely on service dogs.

I sought assistance from state and local disability organizations, but they only offered to educate the laundromat. When I requested legal help, I was directed to the New Mexico Bar Association. After contacting dozens of civil rights lawyers, only one expressed willingness to help me, but their fees started at nearly $10,000. The Department of Justice and the New Mexico Attorney General's office are opening mediation cases. However, I still struggle to find legal assistance for the process. All the disability laws, rights and signs hold little weight if there are no consequences for their violation and no support for those most affected.

Richard Spenner

Rio Rancho