Why Web Accessibility Matters for Government Websites

Government websites serve everyone — citizens, residents, and visitors alike. To truly fulfill their public mission, they must be accessible to all users, including people with disabilities. Web accessibility ensures that individuals who use assistive technologies — such as screen readers, keyboard navigation, voice input, or alternative text interfaces — can fully access and interact with online content and services.

To achieve this, government websites are required to comply with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). These internationally recognized standards provide a framework for making digital content perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust for all users. Compliance with WCAG is not just a legal or policy requirement — it’s a commitment to inclusion, equality, and transparency in public service.

Accessible websites help:

• Ensure equal access to information, forms, and services.

• Improve usability for everyone, including older adults and users on mobile devices.

• Build trust and credibility by demonstrating accountability to all members of the community.

• Meet national and international accessibility laws and regulations, such as Section 508 (U.S.), the European Accessibility Act, or similar local standards.

By designing and maintaining accessible websites, governments uphold their duty to serve every citizen — leaving no one behind in the digital age.

New Federal Rule Taking Effect in 2026

Beginning April 24, 2026, a new federal regulation under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) will require many state and local government entities to ensure that their websites, mobile applications, and digital content comply with WCAG 2.1 Level AA standards. UE+3ADA.gov+3ascode.osu.edu+3

The new rule applies not only to websites but also to mobile apps, third-party contracted digital content, and digital documents (such as PDFs), making it essential for government agencies to audit, remediate, and continuously monitor accessibility across their digital assets.

What is the City doing to comply with new rules?

• August 2025-Formed Web Accessibility Committee
• September 2025-Created a Citywide Web Accessibility Policy, Updated Web Accessibility training with department web liaisons
• October 2025-Updated the website to include a web accessibility page and policy
• November 2025-Jan 2026-Reviewed ways to make pdf's accessible both internally with our IT Department and with external companies.

How can I learn more about what the city is doing to comply with the new federal rule?

Contact cityoffranklin@franklintn.gov