In a groundbreaking legal move, a visually-impaired individual has filed a class action lawsuit against a company for failing to make its website accessible to blind and visually-impaired users. Andre Battle, the plaintiff, lodged the complaint on February 20, 2026, in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois against Rowmark LLC. The lawsuit alleges that Rowmark’s website, Jpplus.com, is not designed to be accessible to those who rely on screen-reading software, thus violating the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Andre Battle claims that Rowmark LLC has failed to design and maintain its website in a manner that allows equal access for blind and visually-impaired individuals. According to Battle, this oversight prevents such individuals from independently navigating or making purchases on Jpplus.com. “The lack of an accessible website means that blind people are excluded from experiencing transacting with Defendant’s website,” states the complaint. Battle emphasizes that while sighted customers can easily browse and purchase products online, blind users face significant barriers due to the site’s reliance on visual interfaces without adequate screen-reader support.
The lawsuit highlights several specific accessibility issues encountered by Battle when attempting to use Jpplus.com. These include inaccessible drop-down menus, inadequate labeling of interactive elements, and a lack of keyboard navigation options—all essential features for screen-reader compatibility. The complaint argues that these barriers effectively exclude blind users from participating in the growing internet economy and accessing goods and services offered by Rowmark both online and at physical locations.
Battle seeks not only compensatory damages but also a permanent injunction requiring Rowmark LLC to modify its website policies and practices. The goal is to ensure Jpplus.com becomes fully accessible to blind consumers in compliance with ADA standards. Additionally, Battle calls for punitive damages and payment of legal fees as part of the relief sought from the court.
Representing Andre Battle is attorney Uri Horowitz from Flushing, New York. The case has been assigned Case No.: 1:26-cv-1908 in front of judges yet unnamed in the document provided.
Source: 126cv01908_Andre_Battle_v_Rowmark_Complaint_Northern_District_of_Illinois.pdf