As local governments continue to adapt to evolving digital accessibility requirements, ensuring websites, documents, social media, and other online content are accessible is no longer just a best practice; it’s a legal responsibility.

With the compliance deadline for the U.S. Department of Justice’s updated ADA Title II rule now in effect, counties are shifting from planning to implementation, making accessibility an increasingly important part of day-to-day communications and digital services.

The session, “You’re Digitally ADA Compliant. Now What?” at the upcoming MACo Summer Conference will explore how counties can move beyond compliance and build accessibility into their everyday workflows. Speakers will share practical strategies for creating accessible digital content, discuss common challenges local governments face, and highlight tools and best practices that help agencies meet legal requirements while better serving all residents. Attendees will leave with actionable ideas they can begin applying in their own organizations.

• Title: You’re Digitally ADA Compliant. Now What?
• Description: The deadline for new ADA digital accessibility requirements has passed, but for many counties, the work is far from over. This session will focus on what comes next. As counties assess their digital presence, identify gaps, and respond to evolving expectations, questions remain around risk, responsibility, and how to maintain compliance over time. Bringing together perspectives from legal, information technology, and communications professionals, this session will explore real-world challenges counties are facing post-deadline. Panelists will highlight common problem areas, how to prioritize fixes, and steps counties can take now to reduce risk and improve accessibility across websites, documents, and digital services. Attendees will leave with a clearer understanding of where they stand and what to do next.
• Speakers:
  • Emily Lucht, Director of Digital Communications for the US Naval Academy Alumni Association and Foundation
  • Marshall Haas, Multimedia Specialist, Queen Anne’s County Television
• Moderator: The Honorable Pamela E. Queen, Maryland House of Delegates
• Date/Time: Friday, August 14, 2026; 2:15 pm – 3:15 pm