In April 2024, the U.S. Department of Justice issued a regulation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) establishing technical accessibility requirements for state and local government websites, mobile applications, academic course content, and digital media. 91ÊÓƵ must ensure that applicable University web content and mobile app content meet WCAG 2.1 Level AA requirements by April 26, 2027. This work supports broader access and advances the University’s commitment to inclusion and equity.
For those who prefer a video overview, the U.S. Department of Justice has provided a recording: Webinar: Americans with Disabilities Act Title II Web & Mobile Application Accessibility Rule.
Exceptions
Note that for content that falls under an exception, if an individual requests an accessible version as an accommodation for a disability, the accessible version must be provided in a timely manner.
- Archived Web Content: Material created prior to April 26, 2027, retained for reference, research, or record-keeping purposes, and clearly labeled as archival. This content must be placed in a designated archive section of the website and may not be modified once archived.
- Pre-Existing Conventional Electronic Documents: Documents created prior to April 26, 2027 and no longer modified or maintained. This is primarily to reduce the burden of remediating
past reference, research, or record-keeping documents like previous-year annual reports,
schedules, and event flyers.
- If the document provides information to engage in any educational or shared governance, student- or public-facing service, or otherwise supports an active program, service, or activity, regardless of creation date, it must be accessible.
- Third-Party Content: Content posted by third parties with no contract with the University, like public comment forms and bulletin boards.
- Password-Protected Documents for a Specific Individual: Such as bills, statements, or transcripts.
- Pre-Existing Social Media Posts: Posts made before April 26, 2027 do not need to be updated.
Archiving Web Content Guidelines
Files and web pages created before April 26, 2027, may be archived for historical reference. If any modifications are made to these files, the updated versions must comply with accessibility standards.