Plone Accessibility Information
Synopsis of Section 508 Accessibility Requirements
Section 508 requires that, when federal agencies develop, procure, maintain, or use electronic and information technology (EIT), federal employees with disabilities have comparable access to and use of information and data as federal employees without disabilities, unless an undue burden would be imposed on the agency.
Section 508 also requires that individuals with disabilities, who are members of the public seeking information or services from a federal agency, have comparable access to and use of information and data as the public without disabilities, unless an undue burden would be imposed on the agency.
Although federal agencies have an explicit statutory obligation to make all EIT that they develop, maintain, or use compliant with Section 508, the current emphasis is on newly procured EIT because it is the category that is explicitly enforceable by legal action. Procurement awards made on or after June 25, 2001, are subject to Section 508. (Select for FAR Final Rule).
According to the Access Board, the Section 508 requirements do not apply retroactively to pre-existing EIT. Specifically, the Electronic and Information Technology Accessibility Standards: Economic Assessment states that:
"The standards are to be applied prospectively and do not require federal agencies to retrofit existing electronic and information technology. As agencies upgrade and change their electronic and information technology, they must comply with the standards."
It should be noted, however, that other federal regulations and guidelines (e.g., Section 501 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act) require equal access for individuals with disabilities. Therefore, reasonable accommodations will be made to ensure this.
To learn more visit the Section 508 site.
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