The Department of Justice’s (DOJ’s) Latest Rule on Web Accessibility: What State and Local Governments Need to Know

On April 24, 2024, the Federal Register published the DOJ’s latest rule updating its regulations for Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Though the update has been in the works for years, the latest rule’s publishing now establishes a mandate. Let’s dig into this new directive and key implications for state and local governments — and the communities they serve.

What Is the DOJ’s Latest Rule on Web Accessibility?

The DOJ’s latest rule on web accessibility mandates “the adoption of specific technical standards for making accessible the services, programs, and activities offered by state and local government entities to the public through the web and mobile applications.”

What Is the Deadline to Comply?

For state and local governments with a total population of 50,000 or more, the compliance deadline for the DOJ’s latest rule on web accessibility will be April 24, 2026. For entities with a total population of fewer than 50,000, the compliance deadline will be April 26, 2027.

How Do State and Local Governments Comply?

Compliance with DOJ’s latest rule on web accessibility requires state and local governments to meet Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 level AA standards for websites and mobile applications. Yet, compliance with DOJ’s latest rule isn’t just a legal obligation. It’s a strategic move for state and local governments to improve the civic experience for residents in their communities.

What Is the Significance of the DOJ’s Latest Rule on Web Accessibility?

In today’s digital age, the link between technology, government transparency, and resident trust is clear. By focusing on meaningful interactions with all residents in the communities they serve, state and local governments can foster trust through increased transparency and accessibility — and be seen as inclusive and socially responsible.

The importance of inclusivity extends beyond physical spaces. Web accessibility amplifies usability for all. Clear text, simple navigation, and logical content structure aid users with and without impairments, making the digital civic experience quick and easy for everyone.

Watch the Webinar: Accessibility Is About People

Inclusivity also lays the foundation for social unity and peace. As people from diverse backgrounds come together, they build bonds, nurture understanding, and advocate for fairness in society. A United Nations report underscores that inclusive communities not only mitigate social discord but also enhance collective well-being.

How Can CivicPlus® Help State and Local Governments Comply With DOJ’s Latest Rule on Web Accessibility?

In a time when inclusivity is essential, not optional, CivicPlus emerges as a leader. Demonstrated by ongoing efforts to earn Voluntary Product Accessibility Template (VPAT) certifications across all our technology solutions, we’re not only focused on complying with regulations but also establishing a new benchmark.

CivicPlus leverages partnerships with leaders in the accessibility and compliance industry for our Web Accessibility solution suite. The suite is designed to fit the budgets, staff and resident needs, and compliance maintenance challenges of state and local government entities of all sizes.

• AudioEye leverages over a decade of investment in advanced technology to offer industry-defining digital accessibility hybrid solutions to help deliver website remediations efficiently and affordably for organizations of all sizes.
• Monsido is a web governance, accessibility compliance, and quality assurance solution that enables local governments to monitor and improve website accessibility, content quality, branding, SEO, data privacy, Core Web Vitals and more.

No matter which Web Accessibility solutions fit your compliance and maintenance strategy, you can be confident your staff and residents can rely on CivicPlus to continuously innovate and adapt our solutions to address the evolving needs of users with various abilities, ensuring accessibility remains a fundamental focus of our development efforts.

Which CivicPlus Web Accessibility solution will help you create and maintain accessible civic experiences in your community? Speak with an accessibility solution strategist.