Plain-English summary
Emotional distress damages unavailable under Rehabilitation Act and ACA private suits
The Supreme Court held that plaintiffs suing under the Rehabilitation Act and the Affordable Care Act (ACA) cannot recover damages for emotional distress. The decision affirms the Fifth Circuit and limits remedies available to victims of disability discrimination by federal-fund recipients.
Why this matters
The ruling narrows the monetary remedies available to people who bring private lawsuits for disability-based discrimination by entities that receive federal funds. Even when discrimination is proven, plaintiffs now cannot obtain compensation for emotional harm under these statutes, making non‑monetary relief and other forms of damages (if allowed) more important.
Who may feel it
- People with disabilities who sue under the Rehabilitation Act
- Patients bringing private suits under the Affordable Care Act's anti‑discrimination provision
- Hospitals, clinics, and other entities that receive federal funds
- Civil-rights and disability-rights lawyers and advocates
Key questions
- Does the Rehabilitation Act (by incorporating Title VI remedies) allow plaintiffs in private suits to recover emotional‑distress damages?
- Does the private enforcement provision of the Affordable Care Act permit emotional‑distress damages?