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The U.S. Department of Justice has finalized new ADA Title II regulations requiring state and local governments to make their websites, mobile applications and digital services accessible to people with disabilities. These rules formally adopt the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG 2.1 Level AA) as the standard for federal compliance.

WCAG 2.1 Level AA outlines how digital content must be structured, labeled and presented so it can be used by individuals with visual, auditory, mobility and cognitive disabilities. The regulations apply to new content as well as some existing digital materials that remain available to the public that is required in order to apply for, gain access to, or participate in the public entity’s services, programs or activities.

Compliance deadlines vary by jurisdiction size:

• Large jurisdictions (50,000+ population): April 24, 2026
• Smaller jurisdictions and special districts: April 26, 2027
  • It is important to note for smaller jurisdictions that beginning April 24, 2026, all documents and digital content submitted to the Michigan Department of Treasury must comply with the updated ADA Title II rules.

What This Means for Local Governments

Local units will be required to ensure all public-facing digital content meets WCAG 2.1 AA, including websites, PDFs, forms and mobile applications. Meeting these requirements often involves reviewing existing materials, updating workflows and coordinating across departments. Because compliance involves both technical changes and content updates, preparation needs to begin well before the federal deadlines.

Treasury Submission Requirement

Beginning April 24, 2026, all documents and digital content submitted to the Michigan Department of Treasury must comply with the updated ADA Title II rules and meet WCAG 2.1 Level AA. This applies to reports such as audited financial statements, forms and other digital materials provided by or on behalf of state and local governments.

Treasury will share additional information and implementation details as federal timelines move closer.

For more information, please refer to the ADA Fact Sheet: New Rule on the Accessibility of Web Content and Mobile Apps Provided by State and Local Governments

John LaMacchia is the League’s director of state & federal affairs. He can be reached at [email protected] or 517-908-0303.