Martinez et al. v. Washington Mutual - First Spanish Language Talking ATMs

This Letter of Understanding, entered into in 2002, established Washington Mutual as the first bank in the United States to offer Talking ATMs with Spanish language support. The agreement was negotiated through Structured Negotiations by Lainey Feingold and Linda Dardarian. Key commitments: - Installation of Washington Mutual Talking ATMs at all existing ATM locations by June 30, 2005 - Talking ATMs with speech output in both English and Spanish (where available to sighted users) - Website accessibility compliance with WCAG Priority One and Two by December 31, 2004 - Comprehensive alternative formats policy (Braille, large print, audio) - Provision of private listening devices (headphones) for Talking ATMs - Training programs for bank personnel The agreement covered approximately 1,300 ATM locations nationwide and established a rollout schedule that would ensure 100% coverage of existing locations. Washington Mutual's commitment to Spanish language support was particularly significant for the accessibility of Spanish-speaking blind customers.