FAQ: New Department of Justice (DOJ) Digital Accessibility Rule
Q: How should course content be handled in terms of accessibility requirements?
A: Course content must be treated the same as any other web or mobile application content. Any content in Canvas needs to meet WCAG 2.1 AA accessibility standards. This includes learning platforms, digital resources, documents, and media.
Q: Is the new rule applicable to web or mobile applications acquired from third-party vendors?
A: Yes, the new rule covers all websites and mobile apps a public entity offers or makes accessible, whether directly or via contracts, licenses, or other agreements. Exceptions for the new rule generally do not apply to electronic information and technology being purchased by the institution. For additional details, visit the Procurement Policies & Procedures page.
Q: How can I determine if my website or web content complies with WCAG standards?
A: The University of Minnesota OIT offers PopeTech, a tool to evaluate University websites and mobile apps for compliance with the WCAG 2.1 AA technical standards. The University also offers UDOIT, a tool within Canvas that supports the creation and posting of accessible content.
Q: What is expected of U of M staff and faculty to meet this standard?
A: The new rule mandates both systemwide and local initiatives to ensure web content and mobile apps adhere to the technical standards. All web and mobile app content owners, managers, and creators must learn how to comply with these standards.
Q: How can I proactively ensure digital accessibility in my work now?
A: The University of Minnesota offers resources to help make technology accessible to individuals with various disabilities. To learn how to make websites, documents, and videos accessible, please visit the Accessible U website.
Q: What are considered "conventional electronic documents"?
A: The new rule defines conventional electronic documents as web or mobile app content in specific electronic file formats, including PDFs, word processor files, presentation files, and spreadsheet files. Examples include Adobe PDF documents, Microsoft Word documents, Apple Keynote or Microsoft PowerPoint presentations, and Google docs, spreadsheets, and slide decks.
Q: What is the history of federal regulations concerning digital accessibility?
A: Over the past decades, federal regulations and guidelines have been instrumental in promoting digital accessibility and ensuring equal access to information for individuals with disabilities. Key milestones include Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, the 1998 amendment to Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act, and the introduction of the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 1.0 in 1999. Despite these significant legislative advances, continuous efforts are necessary to address new technologies and ongoing challenges in the digital landscape across various sectors. For more information, read the article "Key Milestones in Website Accessibility Law" on the Level Access website.