Sunday, October 11, 2026·Focal News

The Seattle Focal

Seattle's independent voice

Local

Federal lawsuit challenges Tacoma Dome caregiver ticket policy under ADA

Jill McAuley, a quadriplegic concertgoer from Woodinville, says Tacoma Dome will not admit her caregiver without a separate ticket. Her federal lawsuit argues the policy violates the Americans with Disabilities Act by making her pay extra to attend events with the support she needs.

Federal lawsuit challenges Tacoma Dome caregiver ticket policy under ADA
A Woodinville woman has filed a federal lawsuit against the city of Tacoma, arguing that the Tacoma Dome must provide a free ticket for the caregiver who accompanies her to events as a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Jill McAuley, who became a quadriplegic after a car crash when she was 18, said she relies on caregivers to help her navigate crowds and respond to emergencies. She uses a motorized wheelchair and adaptive equipment to operate her phone, but says technology cannot replace the assistance she needs at large public events. McAuley said caregivers have been admitted without charge when she has attended events at Lumen Field, Climate Pledge Arena and other theaters. When she contacted Tacoma Dome about a concert scheduled for November, she said she was told the venue would not provide free admission for her caregiver. Her attorney, Conrad Reynoldson of Washington Civil and Disability Advocate, helped bring the case against the city, which operates Tacoma Venues & Events. The lawsuit contends that requiring McAuley to buy an additional ticket for essential support effectively imposes an extra cost because of her disability. Reynoldson said the case seeks policy changes so disabled patrons are not required to purchase tickets for caregivers, and that the legal team has not ruled out seeking monetary damages. McAuley said attending concerts gives her an opportunity to take part in community life, and that barriers to access can leave her isolated. She said she brings a caregiver to every show or event because they know how to assist her. The city said it would not comment on litigation. Tacoma Dome’s ticket policy and the lawsuit’s claims have not been resolved in court.

More from The Seattle Focal