Section 508 requires that federal departments and agencies make sure that their electronic and information technology is accessible to people with disabilities, including both federal employees and members of the public who are seeking information or services from those departments and agencies. The law applies to technology that agencies develop, buy, maintain, or use technology, including websites, software, office equipment, PDFs, and other digital tools.
Section 508 is an important part of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Originally, Section 508 was essentially non-binding and for guidance. However, changes to this law in 1998, made Section 508 binding and enforceable as of June 21, 2001 (and updated in 2017), commonly referred to as the Section 508 Technical Standards. Learn more on the Celebrating 25 Years of Section 508 Standards page.
Note that Section 508 Technical Standards apply to federal entities while the Americans with Disabilities Act applies to state and local governments as well as many private entities. There are different ADA standards and compliance deadlines. For example, information on compliance with ADA Title II (state and local governments) requirements can be found on the ADA.gov website.
