January 9, 2024
The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) recently released updated guidance requiring federal agencies to improve their digital accessibility for people with disabilities. Nearly half of the most popular federal government websites are not fully accessible, which prevents access to critical services and information for millions of Americans.
The changes outlined in the guidance memo include:
- Testing electronic content for accessibility before publishing and including disabled people during the digital design and testing user group process.
- Establishing digital accessibility programs and policies by designating a program manager to define and oversee digital accessibility processes, reporting, tracking, and resolving problems.
- Purchasing accessible products and services.
- Regularly scanning web content to assess whether accessibility requirements are met and prioritizing remediation.
- Cultivating a positive culture of digital accessibility, such as by offering training and education to employees on a regular basis.
The new guidance establishes the required leadership, goals, and a renewed focus to improve digital accessibility across the federal government.
Learn more by reading the policy guidance from OMB or the White House announcement. Email ofcio@omb.eop.gov with any questions.