Website compliance is no longer optional. Businesses and organizations in the US face increasing scrutiny for web accessibility and regulatory adherence, making it critical for web professionals to understand the laws that govern online content. Failure to comply can result in legal action, fines, and reputational damage.
This guide highlights 8 key laws and regulations that every web professional must consider to protect clients and ensure legal safety.
1. Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
The ADA ensures equal access for people with disabilities, covering public accommodations and commercial websites.
- Applies to Title II (government) and Title III (private businesses)
- Requires websites to be accessible via screen readers, keyboard navigation, and captions for multimedia
- DOJ enforces compliance through complaints and lawsuits
Learn more about ADA compliance.
2. Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act
Section 508 mandates federal websites and technology be accessible to employees and the public with disabilities.
- Focuses on federal agencies and contractors
- Compliance ensures assistive technology compatibility
- Aligns with WCAG standards for website accessibility
3. Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG)
WCAG provides a global benchmark for digital accessibility, used in many US regulations.
- Three levels: A, AA, AAA
- Covers perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust content
- Often cited in DOJ settlements
4. Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA)
COPPA protects the privacy of children under 13 online.
- Requires parental consent for data collection
- Applies to websites and apps targeting children
- Violations can result in fines and FTC enforcement actions
5. Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)
HIPAA protects patient health information for healthcare-related websites and platforms.
- Requires secure handling of electronic health information
- Applies to healthcare providers, insurers, and partners
- Non-compliance can lead to federal penalties and lawsuits
6. Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)
FERPA safeguards student records in educational institutions.
- Applies to schools receiving federal funding
- Regulates how educational websites share student information
- Violations risk federal enforcement actions
7. General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)
GDPR protects the privacy and personal data of EU citizens, impacting US-based websites serving international users.
- Requires clear consent, data access, and deletion options
- Applies to any business with EU visitors
- Violations can lead to large fines and reputational damage
8. Electronic and Accessibility Laws (EAA, AODA, CVAA)
Several other laws ensure digital accessibility and communications inclusion:
- EAA (Equal Access Act): Federal mandates for access to electronic information
- AODA: Regional compliance for Ontario, Canada
- CVAA: Accessibility in video and telecom services
How Website Compliance Impacts Your Work
Web professionals must:
- Ensure accessible design and coding practices
- Maintain privacy and data security standards
- Align websites with federal, state, and international laws
- Stay updated on DOJ actions and legal precedents
FAQs About Website Compliance
Q: What is website compliance?
Website compliance ensures digital platforms meet accessibility, privacy, and security regulations.
Q: Which laws apply to US websites?
Key laws include ADA, Section 508, COPPA, HIPAA, FERPA, GDPR, and CVAA.
Q: Why is compliance critical for web professionals?
Non-compliance can lead to lawsuits, fines, lost business, and reputational damage.
Q: How can web professionals maintain compliance?
Regular audits, accessibility updates, user testing, and training are essential.
Integrate Compliance Into Every Project
Understanding website compliance laws is essential for web professionals in today’s legal landscape. From ADA accessibility to COPPA and GDPR, adherence protects both your clients and your career. Proactively integrating these 8 critical laws ensures your work is legally compliant, accessible, and secure.
Partner with Get ADA Alert to implement full web compliance solutions, covering ADA, WCAG, Section 508, and other essential regulations. Safeguard your projects and clients today.
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