WordPress Accessibility Requirements
ADA Compliance Key Dates and Requirements
New rules announced by the Departments of Justice (DOJ) and Health and Human Services (HHS) are redefining how the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) applies to websites. If your organization does business in the U.S. or provides services to U.S.-based audiences, these developments will likely affect your online operations. Addressing accessibility now helps reduce legal risks and promotes a more inclusive experience for everyone who visits your site.
At SiteCare, there are two important guides shaping how we think about web accessibility:
- The DOJ’s Small Entity Compliance Guide clarifies how the ADA applies to state and local government websites (Title II).
- Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act requires organizations that receive federal funding to remove barriers for individuals with disabilities.
These rules, which go into effect in April 2026, emphasize the need for accessible digital content across a broad range of public-facing websites.
New rules announced by the Departments of Justice (DOJ) and Health and Human Services (HHS) are redefining how the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) applies to websites. If your organization does business in the U.S. or provides services to U.S.-based audiences, these developments will likely affect your online operations. Addressing accessibility now helps reduce legal risks and promotes a more inclusive experience for everyone who visits your site.
At SiteCare, there are two important guides shaping how we think about web accessibility:
- The DOJ’s Small Entity Compliance Guide clarifies how the ADA applies to state and local government websites (Title II).
- Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act requires organizations that receive federal funding to remove barriers for individuals with disabilities.
These rules, which go into effect in April 2026, emphasize the need for accessible digital content across a broad range of public-facing websites.
Who Needs to be Compliant?
State & Local Governments (Title II Entities): This includes city halls, libraries, school districts, and any office providing public services or information online.
Healthcare & Medical Providers: Hospitals, clinics, home healthcare agencies, hospices, and other facilities or providers that accept public funds or reimbursements—such as Medicare or Medicaid—may need to meet specific accessibility standards.
Nursing Homes & Long-Term Care: Organizations receiving government support for senior or assisted-living services must address digital barriers on their websites.
Behavioral Health & Substance Abuse Programs: Treatment centers using public grants are responsible for providing accessible online information and tools to individuals seeking help.
Nonprofits & Community Organizations: If you operate on grants or other federal funding to deliver community services, your website may fall under accessibility guidelines.
Educational & Research Institutions: Universities or programs that rely on public funding for research or student services could be required to follow these rules.
State & Local Governments (Title II Entities): This includes city halls, libraries, school districts, and any office providing public services or information online.
Healthcare & Medical Providers: Hospitals, clinics, home healthcare agencies, hospices, and other facilities or providers that accept public funds or reimbursements—such as Medicare or Medicaid—may need to meet specific accessibility standards.
Nursing Homes & Long-Term Care: Organizations receiving government support for senior or assisted-living services must address digital barriers on their websites.
Behavioral Health & Substance Abuse Programs: Treatment centers using public grants are responsible for providing accessible online information and tools to individuals seeking help.
Nonprofits & Community Organizations: If you operate on grants or other federal funding to deliver community services, your website may fall under accessibility guidelines.
Educational & Research Institutions: Universities or programs that rely on public funding for research or student services could be required to follow these rules.
Why Do These Rules Matter?
Clearer Compliance Standards: When the new guidelines become official, websites may see heightened enforcement of ADA requirements. Delaying accessibility updates could increase your risk of legal action.
Legal Consequences: If your site doesn’t meet the updated standards, fines and lawsuits can follow. Proactive fixes typically cost far less than responding to legal claims after the fact.
Reputation & Inclusivity: Taking a forward-thinking approach to accessibility highlights your commitment to serving all users. This can improve public perception and even expand your customer base.
Future-Proofing Your Website: Accessibility rules continue to evolve. Preparing now places you in a stronger position for additional regulatory changes down the road.
Clearer Compliance Standards: When the new guidelines become official, websites may see heightened enforcement of ADA requirements. Delaying accessibility updates could increase your risk of legal action.
Legal Consequences: If your site doesn’t meet the updated standards, fines and lawsuits can follow. Proactive fixes typically cost far less than responding to legal claims after the fact.
Reputation & Inclusivity: Taking a forward-thinking approach to accessibility highlights your commitment to serving all users. This can improve public perception and even expand your customer base.
Future-Proofing Your Website: Accessibility rules continue to evolve. Preparing now places you in a stronger position for additional regulatory changes down the road.
Ready to make your website accessible?
Our team is committed to guiding you through these evolving regulations and helping you maintain a website that supports every visitor. Our team offers thorough assessments, manual and automated testing, practical recommendations, and ongoing assistance to keep your digital presence accessible and compliant.