Division of Information Technology

Wings of Equity: Eagle Nation’s Roadmap to ADA Title II Compliance

Key Aspects of Legislation

• Public universities are now required to ensure that all web content, mobile applications, and digital documents conform to the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1, Levels A and AA. This includes providing alternative text for images, ensuring compatibility with screen readers, and making interactive elements accessible.
• The regulations apply to all digital services offered by public higher education institutions. This encompasses course registration systems, online learning platforms, financial aid information, university websites, and other essential services.
• Universities must ensure that any digital content provided by third parties through contractual, licensing, or other arrangements is accessible. This means that collaborations with external vendors must include accessibility compliance as a key criterion.
• The compliance deadline is April 24, 2026.
• There are very limited and narrow exceptions:
  1. Archived Documents Exception - Archived documents include digital content that: 1a) was created before April, 24, 2026, or 1b) reproduces a paper document created before April 24, 2026, or 1c) reproduces the content of other physical media (e.g. VHS tapes) created before April 24, 2026; 2) is kept exclusively for reference, research, or recordkeeping; 3) is not altered or updated after the date of archiving; AND 4) must be organized and stored in a dedicated area or areas clearly identified as being archived. However, if a person with a disability requests access, the university must provide that content accessibly.
  2. Pre-existing Conventional Electronic Documents Exception: Conventional electronic documents are web content that are 1) in one of the following file formats: a) portable document formats (“PDF”), b) word processor file formats, c) presentation file formats (e.g., PowerPoint), and d) spreadsheet file formats (e.g., Excel); 2) available as part of the public entity’s digital content before April 24, 2026; AND 3) not currently used to a) apply for, b) gain access to, or c) participate in the public entity’s services, programs, or activities.
• Examples of the categories and types of digital content covered by the new regulations include, but are not limited to, the following:
• Course Materials & Academic Content:
  • Syllabi, lecture slides, PDFs, and readings
    • Online quizzes, exams, and assignments
    • Digital textbooks and learning management system (LMS) content
    • Etc.
  • Administrative & Student Services Documents:
    • Registration and enrollment forms
    • Financial aid documents
    • Tuition and fee payment portals
    • Housing applications
    • Disability services forms
    • Etc.
  • Public-Facing Websites & Documents:
    • University website content (e.g., policies, handbooks, event flyers)
    • Press releases, newsletters, and announcements
    • PDF reports, brochures, and marketing materials
    • Etc.
  • Employment & HR Documents:
    • Job postings, hiring applications, and onboarding materials
    • Employee handbooks and workplace policies
    • Benefits enrollment and payroll documents
    • Etc.
  • Mobile Apps
    • University app
    • Sports app
    • Transportation services app
    • Etc.
  • Multi-Media Content
    • Digital newsletters
    • Booklets and brochures
    • Live-streamed and recorded events
    • Webinars
    • Etc.