DoJ updates digital accessibility requirements for state and local governments

The Department of Justice (DoJ) has updated its regulations for Title II of the Americans with disabilities act (ADA). This new rule mandates that state and local governments ensure their web content and mobile applications are accessible to people with disabilities, adhering to WCAG 2.1 Level AA standards.

Determine if this update impacts your organization and identify the correct compliance date with the following highlights.

Who’s impacted

The new rule includes a wide range of public entities, including:

• All state and local governments, including any agencies or departments
• Special purpose districts and other commuter authorities
• Entities providing public services on behalf of state or local governments, such as non-profits running drug treatment programs
• Public schools, community colleges, and public universities
• State and local police departments
• State and local courts
• State and local elections offices
• Public hospitals and healthcare clinics
• Public parks and recreation programs
• Public libraries

Compliance dates

Compliance dates depend on the population served by the entity:

• 0 to 49,999 persons: April 26, 2027
• Special district governments: April 26, 2027
• 50,000 or more persons: April 24, 2026