ADA Web Accessibility Compliance Deadlines
Deadlines for public entities — including public schools, community colleges, and public universities — to ensure compliance with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 Level AA accessibility standards are approaching.
Deadlines
In April 2026, the Department of Justice (DOJ) issued an interim final rule extending the compliance deadlines for the 2024 Title II Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) web accessibility regulations as they apply to State and local government entities. The first deadline applies to entities with populations of 50,000 or more, the second deadline applies to entities with a population less than 50,000. Under the interim final rule:
- Entities with populations greater than 50,000 must be in compliance by April 26, 2027.
- Entities with populations less than 50,000 must be in compliance by April 26, 2028.
The DOJ published Fact Sheet: New Rule on the Accessibility of Web Content and Mobile Apps Provided by State and Local Governments which outlines how a specific entity should calculate its population for the purpose of determining its compliance deadline.
Questions about an entity’s governmental classification and specific deadline should be directed to the ADA Information Line.
Creating a Plan
Review the Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Disability; Accessibility of Web Information and Services of State and Local Government Entities interim final rule and WCAG 2.1. Also review the DOJ fact sheet which includes exceptions that could save valuable time.
When creating a digital accessibility management plan, an organization should consider:
- Conducting an audit of websites, apps, and digital instructional materials
- Coordinating multiple teams (e.g. Information Technology, Legal, Human Resources, Instructional Leadership, Communications)
- Ensuring third-party technology-related service providers have accessibility commitments
- Establishing a review process for online content and new digital tools
- Providing staff training on accessible content creation
Keith McLemore
Keith McLemore joined HR Services in 2015 and assists districts with compensation planning and development. He has 17 years of experience traveling the state supporting public education employees.
McLemore received a bachelor’s degree from Southwestern University and a master’s degree from Texas Tech University, both with a focus on research analysis and design. He is a SHRM-CP.
HR Services
Subscribe to HRX
Stay up to date with all the latest HR news and trends by joining the HRX mailing list!