April 2026 Brings Important Updates to Digital Accessibility Standards
On April 24, 2024, the Department of Justice (DOJ) published a new rule on digital accessibility under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This rule requires the University’s web content, including digital academic course content, to meet new technical standards for digital accessibility by April 24, 2026. Fortunately, UM has been continuously working to improve digital accessibility for more than 10 years and has a number of tools and resources available to support all UM employees.
Background: UM’s Commitment to Digital Accessibility
Since 2014, the 91次元 (UM) has upheld a Digital Accessibility policy aligned with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This policy ensures that digital content and technology are accessible to all users, including those with disabilities. Key requirements have included:
- Faculty must provide instructional materials usable by all students.
- Websites must meet WCAG 2.0 standards.
- Contracts for new hardware/software must include accessibility compliance.
Compliance efforts have been coordinated by ADA/504 Teams, with support from Accessible Technology Services (ATS), Procurement, LEAD (formerly UMOnline), IT, ODE, Mansfield Library, and others.
What’s Changing: New Federal Standards by April 2026
In April 2024, the U.S. Department of Justice released new digital accessibility regulations requiring compliance by April 2026. For the first time, a specific technical standard was mandated - WCAG 2.1, Level AA. This standard includes requirements like alt text for images, captions for videos, readable content, color contrast, and keyboard navigation.
The new rules apply to all academic course content on web and mobile apps and all third-party digital content delivered via contracts, licenses, or other arrangements.
Preparation: UM’s Approach to Accessibility Compliance
UM has already begun implementing changes to meet the new standards. Efforts include creating new training and tools, reviewing and updating websites, and providing resources to help employees update digital content.
The 91次元 offers a variety of tools to support digital accessibility. These resources are designed to help faculty, staff, and students create inclusive digital content and meet evolving accessibility standards. Learn more about these tools and resources from the newly updated UM Accessibility website.
Training, Policy Updates & Future Plans
UM is expanding training and updating policies to align with the new law:
- Digital Accessibility Required Training: Available soon to all employees via NeoEd Learn.
- Digital Map: Ongoing improvements to digital wayfinding.
Additionally, UM’s EITA policy is under review and will be updated to reflect the new federal requirements.