ADA Compliance in Illinois
In Illinois, ADA compliance goes beyond legal requirements—it’s about leading with purpose. It’s your chance to prove that everyone, regardless of ability, deserves equal access to what you offer. Build trust, meet requirements, and make your website accessible to all.
Illinois ADA Requirements
Driven by a commitment to inclusivity and equal opportunity, Illinois has enacted additional legislation exceeding federal requirements to confirm that digital platforms are accessible to all individuals, regardless of ability.
Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 508
Back in 1990, the Americans with Disabilities Act or ADA was set up to help people get physical access. These days, it also includes websites, mobile apps, and other digital platforms. This means that government agencies and businesses like banks, healthcare providers, stores, and entertainment venues need to make sure their online platforms are accessible, too.
Also, Title II says that state and local governments must make sure everyone can use public services and activities online. Meanwhile, Title III requires businesses to offer equal access online to their goods, services, and facilities.
In Illinois, there are several groups dedicated to disability rights and supporting the ADA. Some important organizations include Arc of Illinois and the Great Lakes ADA Center, which are advocacy groups that raise awareness, push for the enforcement of disability rights, and assist individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities.
Additionally, federal agencies are required to make sure all digital technologies, like websites, are accessible for employees and the public with disabilities, thanks to Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act from 1973.
Even if it’s not a must for private businesses, using Section 508 standards can help create better experiences for everyone, boost user satisfaction, and improve accessibility overall. This can really benefit how businesses operate and their reputation too.
Information Technology Accessibility Act
The Illinois Information Technology Accessibility Act (IITAA), enacted in 2007, requires Illinois state agencies and universities to ensure their websites, information systems, and technologies are fully accessible to individuals with disabilities, improving ADA compliance in Illinois.
The Act outlines specific technical standards aligned with Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1.
Entities Covered by the IITAA
The Illinois Information Technology Accessibility Act (IITAA) applies to specific state government entities, including:
- Executive, legislative, and judicial branches
- Agencies, departments, and divisions
- Constitutional offices
- Public universities
The IITAA doesn't focus on private companies, but both the ADA and IITAA require following the WCAG guidelines. So, if you run a private business, you've got to stick to this shared framework to be in line with Title III of the ADA.
Technology Covered by the IITAA
The IITAA covers a broad range of information and communication technology, such as:
- Websites, digital documents, and multimedia content
- Software programs and mobile applications
- Information kiosks and self-service machines
Consequences of Noncompliance With Accessibility Laws
Ignoring ADA rules in Illinois can lead to costly penalties. For starters, if you get a violation, it could cost you $75,000 right off the bat. And if you rack up more offenses, you might be facing fines that reach up to $150,000.
Plus, in this social media age, news about accessibility problems spreads quickly, leading to boycotts and bad reviews.
Once folks start to see you in a bad light, it can be hard to get their trust back.
How To Ensure Your Website Complies With Illinois Accessibility Laws
Address your website’s accessibility early on with these techniques:
- Continuous Testing: Regular testing is critical for maintaining ADA compliance in Illinois. It identifies and addresses accessibility issues before they escalate into legal problems.
- Following WCAG Best Practices: The WCAG, established by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C), sets the standard for digital accessibility. After auditing a site, consulting these guidelines ensures effective improvements and long-term compliance.
Digital accessibility doesn’t have to be a challenge—it can be a strategic advantage for your business with Be Accessible as your partner. We make the process effortless with in-depth website audits, automated document remediation, seamless accessibility repairs, and custom-made training.
We will create a digital experience that is inclusive, engaging, and accessible to everyone.
Be Accessible Increases Digital Accessibility Every Day
We serve a wide range of industries from restaurants to tech companies to financial institutions and everything in between.
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