● The short answer
The DOJ's 2024 ADA Title II rule requires state and local governments, including cities, counties, school districts, public universities and transit agencies, to make web content and mobile apps meet WCAG 2.1 Level AA. In April 2026 the DOJ extended the deadlines: April 26, 2027 for entities serving 50,000 or more people, and April 26, 2028 for smaller entities and special districts.
Key takeaways
- The DOJ Title II rule requires state and local government web content and apps to meet WCAG 2.1 AA.
- An April 2026 interim final rule moved deadlines to April 26, 2027 (50,000 or more people) and April 26, 2028 (smaller entities and special districts).
- The substantive requirements did not change, and the DOJ may propose further changes.
What the rule requires
The DOJ published its final rule on the accessibility of web content and mobile apps under Title II of the ADA in April 2024. It covers state and local government entities and their agencies, including special purpose districts and public transit authorities. It also reaches content provided through contractors and vendors: a county site built by a design firm or a parking payment app run by a private company on a city's behalf still counts.
The technical standard is WCAG 2.1 Level AA. Content that meets WCAG 2.2 AA also meets 2.1 AA. See what is WCAG.
The how is where we come in.
What we walk through with you, for your business:
- The current deadlines
- What is excepted, and what is not
- A practical plan for public entities
- Our take
Every business is different, so the plan is too. Tell us where you want to show up and we will show you what it takes.
Talk to usMore questions
Does the Title II rule apply to school districts and public universities?
Yes. Public school districts, community colleges and public universities are state or local government entities under Title II, so their websites, learning platforms they provide and mobile apps are covered. Their compliance date depends on the population of the entity, which for many districts is calculated from the jurisdiction they serve.
Are third-party vendor tools covered?
Yes, when the government provides or makes them available, including through contracts or licensing arrangements. Payment portals, permit systems, agenda platforms and apps run by vendors on the entity's behalf must meet the standard. Require WCAG 2.1 AA conformance and documentation in vendor contracts.
Sources
- Federal Register (DOJ): Extension of Compliance Dates for Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Disability; Accessibility of Web Information and Services of State and Local Government Entities
- ADA.gov: Fact Sheet: New Rule on the Accessibility of Web Content and Mobile Apps Provided by State and Local Governments
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