Digital Accessibility Is Now the Law
In a landmark ruling that disability rights advocates are calling "the most important accessibility decision in a decade," a federal appeals court affirmed that the Americans with Disabilities Act requires websites, apps, and digital services to be accessible to people with disabilities.
The decision closes a long-standing legal gap that left millions of Americans with visual, hearing, motor, and cognitive disabilities unable to fully participate in an increasingly digital society — from online banking to telehealth to government services.
What This Means
- Websites and apps must be compatible with screen readers and other assistive technologies
- Video content must include captions and audio descriptions
- Online forms and transactions must be navigable by keyboard for users who cannot use a mouse
- Government digital services must meet WCAG 2.1 AA accessibility standards
"One in four Americans has a disability," said the lead plaintiff's attorney. "In 2026, there is no excuse for building a digital world that excludes 61 million people."
