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Beyond the Font: A Comprehensive Guide to Digital Accessibility Mandates

by | Mar 6, 2025 | Web Design Best Practices

Of a young man who appears to have issues with his eyes. He needs to have access to websites designed for equal access.

This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for local legal advice. Please consult a legal expert to understand how these rules apply to your specific situation.

The federal government of the United States is working hard to make sure everyone can access and use websites, apps, and digital resources easily. New rules require changes to many websites, including state and local government websites as well as websites for many businesses and nonprofits that receive funds through grants and payments of federal dollars. These rules are not just about making text bigger or changing colors; they mean rebuilding websites so they work well for everyone.

Why This Matters Even More Today

Recently, the Department of Justice (DOJ) issued new mandates.

  • If a business, organization, or government website services a population area with more than 50,000 residents they have until April 2026 to comply with accessibility standards.
  • If a business, organization, or government website services a population area with less than 50,000 residents they have until April 2027 to comply with accessibility standards.

 

Who Must Follow Accessability Rules?

These regulations apply to a range of organizations, including:

  • State and Local Government Agencies: Cities, counties, school districts, and public transportation services must update their websites.
  • Federally Funded Nonprofits and Businesses: Organizations like community health clinics, libraries, and even service providers (for example, a company hired by a city to collect garbage) must comply.
  • Businesses Receiving Federal Money: If your business gets federal grants or contracts, you may need to meet these rules.

Who May Be Excempt?

Private websites and businesses that do not receive federal funding or aren’t run by a government entity might not be subject to these specific regulations. However, many choose to follow these guidelines to serve all customers better.

What Are the Two Main Sets of Rules?

  • Section 508 – Applies to federal funding and requires version 2.0 compliance
    Title 2 (AA) – Applies to state and local funding and requires version 2.1 compliance

What Does Digital Accessibility Mean?

Digital accessibility means building websites that are easy for everyone to use. It is not just about making text bigger; it means making sure every part of a website is designed with everyone in mind. Here are some key features:

  • Text for Pictures and Videos: Every picture or video should include a clear description. For example, a picture of a community event should have words explaining what is shown.
  • Color neutral design: While you can use colors, you can rely on instructions such as “everything in green”, 12% of men or red/green color blindness. You must ensure instructions rely on more than one identifying feature in this case.
  • Keyboard Navigation: Some people cannot use a mouse. Websites must work well when only a keyboard is used.
  • Easy-to-Follow Layouts: Information should be organized clearly so that anyone can find what they need without confusion.
  • Responsive Design: Whether you use a computer, tablet, or phone, the website should work properly on any device.

Why These Rules Matter

These rules help ensure that everyone—no matter their abilities—can access important information and services online. This matters for two big reasons:

  • Social Justice: Everyone deserves equal access. A student who is deaf or an older adult with poor eyesight should be able to use a website just like everyone else.
  • Legal Protection: Not following these rules can lead to legal action. Organizations that do not update their websites risk lawsuits and fines, which can hurt their reputation and finances.

Real Consequences for Non-Compliance

There are real examples where businesses and organizations have faced negative consequences for not complying with accessibility rules:

Example 1: A The federal government initiated legal action against a city in Texas over it’s election website. The city settled with the government and agreed to bring the website into complaince.
(Click here to read more: Case Study on Website Accessibility Lawsuit)

Example 2: A business received significant media attention after being sued for not providing an accessible website, showing that even small organizations can face serious repercussions.
(Click here to read more: Accessibility Lawsuits: What You Need to Know)

Funding and Resources

Updating a website to meet these rules can be expensive. Fortunately, there are several ways to get financial help:

  • Federal Digital Inclusion Grants: These grants help improve digital services on public websites.
  • State and Local Modernization Funds: Some regions offer money to help update websites.
  • Private and Foundation Grants: Various organizations offer funding to support accessible technology.
  • Tax Credit: Get up to $5,000 in a federal tax credit for work to ensure accessibility.  You can click here to learn more about this.

To help you get started, click here to download our free spreadsheet that lists funding opportunities. You’ll find it a useful tool if you’re planning to update your website.

Get Started with a Complimentary Accessibility Audit

If you’re not sure where to begin, we offer a complimentary 7-part “lightening” accessibility audit. This service will help you understand what changes are needed and how you can meet the new rules quickly and efficiently.

Final Thoughts

The new digital accessibility rules are a big step toward making the internet a place where everyone can get the information they need. Whether you are a government agency, a nonprofit, or a business receiving federal funding, updating your website isn’t just about avoiding legal trouble—it’s about making your services available to everyone. By planning ahead and taking advantage of available resources, you can ensure your website is ready for a more inclusive future.

For more detailed government guidance, please visit:

Section508.gov
ADA.gov

If you have any questions or need help, contact us for your complimentary audit, and let’s work together to create a better, more accessible digital world.