Recently, the Department of Justice (DOJ) announced a significant update concerning the accessibility of web content and services provided by state and local government entities. This new ruling mandates compliance with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 Level AA standards. The ruling applies specifically to state and local government websites and digital services, aiming to ensure they are accessible to all individuals, including those with disabilities. This development follows a notice of proposed rulemaking issued on April 24, 2024, and comes into effect from January 2025, providing entities adequate time to make necessary adjustments.
Understanding WCAG 2.1 Level AA
The WCAG 2.1 Level AA guidelines serve as a global standard for web accessibility, ensuring content is perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust for all users. These guidelines include requirements such as text alternatives for non-text content, navigation accessibility, and the adaptability of content presentation without losing information.
Key Changes and Exceptions
Over the years, the evolution from WCAG 2.0 to 2.1 incorporated changes that addressed the growing use of mobile technology and different user needs. Key updates included guidelines for spacing, non-text contrast, and interaction methods. Despite these stringent standards, the ruling does provide exceptions. For instance, archived web content that is not maintained or used in active administrative processes and content posted before the compliance date are not required to be retroactively modified.
Compliance and Our Role
Most websites designed to be compliant with earlier standards might now only need minimal updates to meet the latest requirements. However, ensuring full compliance with WCAG 2.1 Level AA could be challenging for many entities. As Oklahoma’s leading web designers specializing in accessible web design, we are proficient in updating and designing websites that not only meet but exceed the required accessibility standards. Our team is well-equipped to assist government agencies in becoming fully compliant, providing a seamless and inclusive digital experience for all users.
Our Thoughts
The new DOJ ruling is a critical step forward in making digital content accessible to everyone, reflecting an ongoing commitment to inclusion and equality. For state and local government entities looking to ensure their websites and digital services meet these updated standards, partnering with experienced professionals like us will simplify this transition. We invite you to contact us to discuss how we can help your organization not only meet but excel in providing accessible digital content.
Read the full ruling here.