The United States - Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973
What Is Section 508?
In the United States, Section 508 of the U.S. Rehabilitation Act of 1973, requires that when Federal agencies develop, procure, maintain, or use electronic and information technology, Federal employees with disabilities have access to an use information and data that is comparable to the access and use by Federal employees who are not individuals with disabilities, unless an undue burden would be imposed on the agency.
Section 508 also requires that individuals with disabilities, who are members of the public seeking information or services from a Federal agency, have access to and use of information and data that is comparable to that provided to the public who are not individuals with disabilities, unless an undue burden would be imposed on the agency.
How is U.S. Section 508 Applied?
To be “Section 508 compliant,” software, Web sites, documentation, and technical support purchased by the federal government after June 25, 2001, must meet the accessibility standards specified in the Section 508 regulations. These standards, as well as definitions of “electronic and information technology,” were issued by the U.S. Access Board (an independent government agency) on December 21, 2000.
Many advocacies have attempted to apply U.S. Section 508 requirements to State agencies and U.S. based corporations. Although Section 508 does not apply to those groups, U.S. Section 508 has provided a framework for forward thinking U.S. organizations to include their employees and customers whom may have disabilities.
Are You a Member of a U.S. Federal Agency?
Accessibil-IT is able to make all of your electronic content accessible and compliant, whether its available today, or in the planning stages for the future. Section 508 compliance is very specific and requires a technical expertise to ensure your Department's forms and communications are accessible. Accessibil-IT has worked with Federal Agencies and is ready to assist yours.