In April 2024, the Department of Justice (DOJ) issued a clarifying decision finalizing updated regulations under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This ruling requires state and local governments to ensure digital content meets certain accessibility requirements. With the first compliance deadline, April 24, 2026, rapidly approaching, here is what local governments need to know.
Overview:
This regulation mandates Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 Level AA as the mandatory technical standard for all state and local government web content and mobile apps. WCAG 2.1 Level AA is an internationally recognized framework that includes requirements such as keyboard navigation, screen reader compatibility, visual clarity, and multimedia access.
This rule is designed to ensure all residents can participate in community events and programs online. As such, it requires government websites, mobile applications, and other digital services to meet updated technical standards to ensure equal access for residents with disabilities.
With the first major deadline arriving in April 24, 2026, counties should act now to assess their digital presence and begin necessary remediations.
What is Covered?
WCAG standards apply to a wide range of digital content used to deliver government services including:
- County websites and webpages
- Online forms and service portals
- Digital documents (PDFs, Word documents, and presentations)
- Online meeting materials and public notices
- Video content and multimedia
- Mobile applications used to deliver county services.
In general, if a county provides information or services online, those digital resources must be accessible to individuals with disabilities. Notably, these requirements apply even if a county relies on third-party vendors to host or manage its digital services.
Common Challenges:
Across the public sector, several types of digital content frequently present accessibility challenges. Counties reviewing their digital platforms might consider paying particular attention to:
- Untagged PDFs: Older PDF document libraries may not be properly tagged or interpretable by screen readers.
- Online forms and service portals: Any forms must include clear, accessible labels, instruction, and navigation.
- Video and multimedia content: Certain video content may require captions and audio content may require transcripts.
- Color and design: Text and background colors must meet minimum contrast thresholds to ensure readability for users with low vision.
Looking Ahead:
The DOJ has set a phased local government implementation schedule based on population size:
| Population Size | Compliance Deadline |
| 50,000 or more residents | April 24, 2026 |
| Fewer than 50,000 residents | April 26, 2027 |
Ensuring accessible digital services helps counties meet legal obligations while improving access to public services for residents with disabilities. As the first compliance deadline on April 24, 2026 rapidly approaches, counties should take proactive steps to ensure a seamless transition into full ADA compliance.
Helpful Resources:
