When it comes to web accessibility, there’s often confusion between the terms ADA, WCAG, and Section 508. While they’re all connected, each serves a different role in promoting inclusive digital experiences.
- ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act): This is a broad civil rights law enacted in 1990 that prohibits discrimination based on disability. Though it doesn’t specify technical website requirements, U.S. courts and the Department of Justice interpret it to include digital properties like websites and mobile apps. ADA Title III is especially relevant to businesses offering goods and services to the public.
- WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines): Created by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C), WCAG is the global standard for web accessibility. It provides specific technical recommendations for making digital content usable by people with disabilities. These guidelines are organized by four key principles: Perceivable, Operable, Understandable, and Robust (POUR). WCAG is not a law, but it’s the benchmark used by courts and accessibility auditors to measure ADA compliance.
- Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act: This is a U.S. federal law that mandates all electronic and information technology (EIT) developed, procured, maintained, or used by federal agencies be accessible to people with disabilities. Section 508 applies specifically to government websites and software, and it directly references WCAG as the required standard.
In summary:
- ADA sets the legal framework.
- WCAG sets the technical standard.
- Section 508 is a law that applies WCAG within the public sector.
Understanding how these three interact is crucial for any business aiming to protect itself from
lawsuits and ensure their website is truly inclusive