ADA Compliance in Wisconsin
While Wisconsin may not have state-specific web accessibility laws beyond the ADA, businesses should remain attentive. Government agencies and advocacy groups in the state are actively working to improve digital inclusion. Their efforts serve as an important example. Businesses are still required to comply with federal standards and should take proactive steps to make sure their websites are accessible. Improving your website’s inclusivity will also strengthen your social impact.
Wisconsin ADA Requirements
In Wisconsin, there is some real progress happening when it comes to accessibility thanks to a mix of government initiatives and community-driven actions.
Federal Accessibility Laws
The Americans with Disabilities Act or ADA was signed into law back in 1990, and it is a key civil rights law that stops discrimination against people with disabilities. Out of its five parts, Title II and Title III are the ones that connect to web accessibility.
Title II is all about making sure that state and local governments have their digital services, including websites and apps, accessible to everyone. Title III used to focus on physical places, but courts and the Department of Justice (DOJ) have now made it clear that it also includes websites and online content from private companies.
On a different note, Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 focuses on making electronic and information technology used by federal agencies accessible. This law mandates that all federal digital content, platforms, and communication tools be user-friendly for people with disabilities. It also applies to contractors working with the government.
The rules in Section 508 are pretty technical and are usually aligned with the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). They aim to break down barriers and make access equal across federal digital systems.
Wisconsin’s Initiatives for Accessibility
Wisconsin has not yet passed a law regarding web accessibility, but that has not stopped progress. Communities and state agencies are working hard to improve digital inclusion in practical ways.
The ADA Wisconsin Partnership is a community effort that brings together advocacy groups, government agencies, and individuals with disabilities to help make the ADA work better.
This is not a business. It is more like a support and learning network. They give out free help, provide valuable resources, and offer advice to make sure both public and private organizations know what they need to do and what rights they have under the ADA.
At the state level, the Wisconsin Department of Justice has set up guidelines for its websites and online tools based on Section 508 of the federal Rehabilitation Act. These rules say websites need clear text alternatives for images, easy-to-use online forms, and adjustable font sizes, and they should work well even without a mouse.
Wisconsin businesses can boost digital access by using resources from advocacy groups and adhering to the rules that state agencies set. This can build lasting trust with customers and shape a more welcoming brand.
Risks of Noncompliance
If organizations in Wisconsin overlook digital accessibility, they might face some big problems. Businesses not following ADA rules could face lawsuits, fines, or bad publicity. Not following Section 508 standards can also impact funding and audit outcomes for federal agencies and contractors.
People in Wisconsin want businesses to create digital spaces that everyone can access. If a company does not make accessibility a priority, it could hurt its reputation. Conversely, having an accessible design shows that a business cares about its community and helps build trust.
How To Make Sure Your Website Complies With Accessibility Standards
Following these guidelines helps protect you from legal trouble while also creating an environment where everyone feels valued, included, and able to fully participate.
- Check Accessibility with the Right Tools: Assess the accessibility of your content using screen readers, contrast checkers, and keyboard navigation.
- Stay Current with Accessibility Practices: Make it a habit to check and update your digital platforms often so you are keeping up with the latest tech standards and legal rules.
At Be Accessible, with our comprehensive site audits, PDF document remidiations and customized training we empower your organization to stay ahead of compliance requirements while actively contributing to a more inclusive Wisconsin.
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