Regulation
ADA Title II Web Accessibility Deadline: April 24, 2026
On April 24, 2024, the Department of Justice published a final rule under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act, establishing specific technical requirements for state and local government web content and mobile applications. For the first time, there are hard deadlines and a named standard: WCAG 2.1 Level AA.
Standard
WCAG 2.1 Level AA
Deadline
April 24, 2026 (50,000+ population) / April 24, 2027 (smaller entities)
Enforcement
Active
Key requirements
Hard deadline: April 24, 2026
State and local government entities with populations of 50,000+ must conform by April 24, 2026. Smaller entities have until April 24, 2027.
WCAG 2.1 Level AA is mandatory
The rule specifically requires conformance with WCAG 2.1 Level A and AA success criteria. This is the first time a specific WCAG version has been mandated by federal regulation.
Covers web and mobile
Both web content and mobile applications of state and local governments must comply. Social media content linked from official accounts is included.
Limited exceptions
Archived content (pre-rule, not updated), third-party content (with conditions), password-protected conventional documents, and preexisting social media posts have exceptions.
Who must comply
State government agencies and departments
Local government entities (cities, counties, towns)
Public school districts and state universities
Public transit authorities
Public libraries, courts, and emergency services
Penalties for non-compliance
DOJ enforcement through investigations, compliance reviews, and lawsuits. Private individuals can file complaints with the DOJ or bring lawsuits. Courts can order injunctive relief and require compliance plans.
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