The requirement for Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) compliance varies by context and geography, influenced by specific laws and standards. For federal agencies and contractors in the United States, WCAG compliance is mandated under Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, which was updated in 2017 to require compliance with WCAG 2.0 A/AA standards【“】. This legal requirement ensures that electronic and information technology is accessible to people with disabilities.
In the broader legal landscape, particularly for private businesses, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) does not explicitly require WCAG compliance. However, the ADA is often interpreted to mean that websites, as places of public accommodation, must be accessible to people with disabilities. While the ADA doesn’t specify WCAG as the standard, it’s understood that websites must be accessible, and WCAG conformance is widely regarded as the best way to achieve web accessibility【“】【“】. Courts and legal settlements often reference WCAG as an acceptable standard for ensuring website accessibility, making it a de facto benchmark for ADA compliance【“】.
Moreover, globally, several countries and regions have adopted laws and policies that either directly incorporate WCAG standards or are influenced by them. For instance, the European Union’s Web and Mobile Accessibility Directive mandates accessibility in line with WCAG 2.0 for public sector bodies【“】.
In summary, while not every law explicitly mandates WCAG compliance, adhering to WCAG standards is widely recognized as a best practice for ensuring website accessibility and mitigating the risk of legal challenges. Organizations aiming for compliance should consider WCAG conformance as part of their accessibility strategy, especially as digital accessibility becomes more scrutinized under various legal frameworks around the world.