SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AND SOUTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONS UNDER THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT

I. PURPOSE

1. This Settlement Agreement is entered into between the United States and the South Carolina Department of Corrections ("SCDC"). This Agreement reaffirms and restates the SCDC's obligations to provide appropriate auxiliary aids and services whenever necessary to ensure effective communication with inmates who have hearing disabilities and its obligation to ensure that all inmates with disabilities have full and equal access to the SCDC's programs, services, and activities.