As governments work to modernize their digital services, accessibility is no longer a long-term goal – it is now an immediate priority. On April 24, 2024, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) issued a final ruling requiring state and local governments to meet and strengthen specific web and mobile accessibility standards under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Why Digital Accessibility Matters

The true goal of accessibility is equity. Accessibility ensures that every resident, including those with a disability, has a fair and equal opportunity to engage with public services, programs, and information available online.

According to a recent report, more than 21.3% of Americans rely on assistive technologies like screen readers, closed captions, or keyboard navigation.

As digital services move to primarily online platforms, failing to meet accessibility standards can unintentionally create barriers for millions of individuals, limiting their ability to do a multitude of tasks like apply for benefits, access health information, register to vote, or participate in public decision-making processes.

“Government services should serve all residents—not just those who are tech-savvy or those who don’t require assistive technologies. By incorporating accessibility into your operations, you improve the efficiency and effectiveness of government services and demonstrate respect for every resident,” said Jay Wyant, Chief Information Accessibility Officer of Minnesota.

Steps to Prepare for ADA Compliance

With the right digital tools and procurement strategies in place, achieving compliance with these standards can be a streamlined process that improves both access and user experience for all. To help state and local governments and educational institutions move from awareness to action, here are key steps to prepare for the compliance deadlines:

1. Conduct an Accessibility Audit

Before making any changes or updates to your website, you should conduct an audit of all digital content published across websites and mobile applications to identify accessibility gaps that do not meet compliance standards. This includes not only public-facing websites but also internal portals, mobile apps, forms, and any multimedia content.  The WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) 2.1 Level AA sets the standard for digital inclusivity. At a high level, it requires your website and apps to be:

• Perceivable – Content is accessible through various formats (e.g., alt text for images)
• Operable – Interfaces are navigable by keyboard and assistive devices
• Understandable – Language is readable and predictable
• Robust – The digital content is compatible with assistive technologies and future tools

To carry out an effective accessibility audit to meet these standards, consider using a combination of the following approaches:

• Automated Tools: Scan and flag common accessibility issues like missing alt text, low color contrast, or improper heading structure
• Manual Testing: Perform user testing by individuals who may need assistive technologies
• Expert Evaluation: Have a digital accessibility professional review current compliance effort

Conducting a thorough accessibility audit, whether internally or through a third party, provides a roadmap for a plan to action.  This first step ensures that improvements and strategies are based on a clear understanding of existing issues so that resources are prioritized effectively.

2. Prioritize and Create a Plan

An effective accessibility strategy should be scalable and aligned with your organization’s timeline for compliance. The U.S. Department of Justice has established deadlines based on the size and type of government entity:

• By April 24, 2026: Public entities with populations of 50,000 or more
• By April 26, 2027: Public entities with populations under 50,000 – including special district governments

Organize improvements into phases that break the work into manageable projects to meet compliance deadlines, if applicable. Understanding which deadline applies to your organization is important while building a realistic, phased plan for compliance.

Begin by focusing on the most essential and high-impact areas of your digital presence. This includes high-traffic webpages, public service portals, legacy online forms, and any tasks critical to daily life, such as applying for benefits, paying bills, requesting records, or accessing health and safety information.

Then, identify key stakeholders and resources that will be critical to implementing these updates and changes, especially for organizations with separate teams managing web content, procurement, IT, and legal compliance. Establish clear roles and responsibilities early on to streamline decision-making, minimize risks, and help ensure accessibility becomes a collaborative effort across your agency or department.

3. Explore Certifications and Training

Training your staff will ensure that your state complies with web accessibility standards and will establish accessibility standards as a part of your team’s everyday workflow. Keep in mind select staff roles will require different types of training based on their responsibilities.

Consider encouraging staff members to pursue professional certifications, such as those offered by the International Association of Accessibility Professionals (IAAP).  Certifications like the Certified Professional in Accessibility Core Competencies (CPACC) or Web Accessibility Specialist (WAS) can help your team develop recognized credentials and build accessibility into every area of content and digital presence.

4. Use NASPO ValuePoint to Help

Meeting ADA web accessibility standards doesn’t have to be overwhelming. NASPO ValuePoint offers pre-negotiated solutions that can help states and local governments meet ADA requirements efficiently and without unnecessary delays.

Through competitively sourced contracts, eligible public entities can access a wide range of trusted solutions, including:

• Cloud Solutions
• Citizen Engagement Platforms
• Audio/Video Equipment and Supplies
• Computer Equipment, Peripherals & Related Services
• IT Research & Advisory Services
• Wireless Voice, Data & Accessories

Whether you’re just getting started or looking to expand your cloud solutions or accessibility efforts, NASPO ValuePoint makes it easier to find the right suppliers and tools. Explore our accessibility and cloud solutions related portfolios to take the next step toward digital equity and compliance:

ADA.gov Resources

• Guidance on Web Accessibility and the ADA
• State and Local Governments: First Steps Toward Complying with the Americans with Disabilities Act Title II Web and Mobile Application Accessibility Rule

Additional Resources:

• Advancing Accessibility: Navigating ADA Title II Changes for State and Local Governments
• Podcast: NASCIO’s Federal Advocacy Priorities and the DOJ Final Rule on Accessibility for State and Local Websites and Apps