Update on ADA Digital Accessibility Rule
On April 20, 2026, the Department of Justice extended the compliance deadline for the Americans with Disabilities Act’s (ADA) Digital Accessibility Rule.
What this means for UW–Madison
While the federal requirement to ensure digital content is accessible by meeting the ADA’s technical standard is the same, the deadline has been extended to April 26, 2027.
This extension does not change the university’s commitment to digital accessibility or the importance of this work. Creating accessible digital experiences remains central to supporting the student experience, advancing equity and inclusion across the university, and is required under the ADA. This is reinforced by the university’s recently updated Digital Accessibility policy, which affirms accessibility as an institutional expectation.
Frequently asked questions
The Department of Justice changed the deadline to comply with the digital accessibility rule from April 24, 2026, to April 26, 2027.
There are several factors, including feedback from various organizations about the amount of content and complexity of remediation. A specific area of difficulty includes STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) content.
The Department of Justice’s “Extension of Compliance Dates for Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Disability; Accessibility of Web Information and Services of State and Local Government Entities” contains detailed information about the extension.
Yes. The university’s Digital Accessibility policy is in effect and remains a core part of the university’s commitment to equity and inclusion and its obligations under the ADA.
While formal enforcement of the policy begins April 26, 2027, reports of alleged disability discrimination, including digital accessibility issues, will be immediately addressed by the Office of Compliance.
No, the requirement to create accessible content, including digital, has been a longstanding requirement under the ADA. This federal extension and the university’s Digital Accessibility policy still require compliance with the WCAG 2.1 Level AA technical standard.
No, not at all. Keep addressing accessibility issues in existing content and make new content accessible from the start. Focus on steady progress. Accessible digital content improves usability, clarity and flexibility for everyone, not only people with disabilities.
No, don’t wait. Start by reviewing the digital accessibility fundamentals and follow these getting started steps.
No, there is no need to contact them again. Continue to require digital accessibility in your procurement contracts, including renewals. Doing so helps the university comply with the ADA and aligns with the university’s Digital Accessibility policy.
No. The initiative continues to receive support from its executive sponsors and delivers university-wide resources and tools to support digital accessibility. Visit University Digital Accessibility Initiative for information about the project.
Get Help: Reach Out for Additional Information
Center for User Experience:
The Center for User Experience can provide additional information on how to create more accessible, usable, and inclusive digital content for all students, faculty, and staff. Request consultation through the Center for User Experience website.
Office of Compliance:
If you have questions related to the scope of the new federal rule for the Americans with Disabilities Act, contact the ADA Coordinators in the Office of Compliance.