US Accessibility Laws & Regulations

Understanding the legal landscape of digital accessibility in the United States. These laws protect the rights of people with disabilities to access websites, mobile applications, and digital services.

Federal Laws

Federal laws establish baseline accessibility requirements for government agencies, public accommodations, and organizations receiving federal funding.

State Laws

Many states have enacted additional accessibility requirements, often extending federal protections or adding new obligations for businesses and government entities.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

ADA Title II

Applies to: State and local government entities

Standard: WCAG 2.1 Level AA (as of April 2024)

Deadline: April 2026/2027 depending on entity size

Title II prohibits discrimination by public entities. The April 2024 DOJ rule establishes specific technical requirements for government websites and mobile applications.

Learn About Title II

ADA Title III

Applies to: Private businesses and public accommodations

Standard: WCAG 2.1 Level AA (de facto)

Status: No formal web rule yet; high litigation risk

Title III prohibits discrimination by private entities that operate places of public accommodation. Websites are increasingly treated as extensions of physical businesses.

Learn About Title III

Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act

Federal Agency Requirements

Applies to: Federal agencies and their contractors

Standard: WCAG 2.0 Level AA (aligned in 2017 Refresh)

Section 508 requires federal agencies to make their electronic and information technology accessible. This includes websites, software, hardware, and electronic documents. Federal contractors must also meet these standards.

Section 508 Guide

State Accessibility Laws

State-Level Requirements

Many states have enacted their own accessibility laws that may extend federal protections or create additional obligations. Key states with notable accessibility laws include:

  • California - Unruh Civil Rights Act extends ADA protections
  • New York - Active accessibility litigation environment
  • Texas - State agency accessibility requirements
  • Illinois - Information Technology Accessibility Act
  • Colorado - Technology accessibility standards
State Laws Guide

Other Relevant Laws

Section 255

FCC regulations requiring telecommunications equipment and services to be accessible.

CVAA

21st Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act for advanced communications.

ACAA

Air Carrier Access Act requiring airline websites to be accessible.

Quick Comparison

Law Applies To Technical Standard Enforcement
ADA Title II State/Local Government WCAG 2.1 Level AA DOJ, Private Lawsuits
ADA Title III Private Businesses WCAG 2.1 AA (de facto) DOJ, Private Lawsuits
Section 508 Federal Agencies WCAG 2.0 Level AA Agency, OMB
Section 504 Federal Funding Recipients Varies Funding Agency

Not Sure Which Law Applies to You?

The Web Standards Commission can help you understand your accessibility obligations. Use our resources or contact us for guidance.

Business Guidance Contact WSC