The new web accessibility law could mean better government services for everyone. Seize the opportunity.
Accessibility is good design
When we make government websites accessible, we design services that work better for everyone. Accessible websites make information:
- Easy to find
- Clear to understand
- Usable by everyone—regardless of their abilities
Good design isn’t about aesthetics. It’s about government that truly serves people.
From obligation to a usability mindset
Government agencies often see accessibility only as a compliance issue. The real question is: “Does this website actually work well for everyone who needs it?”
With the new web accessibility law, local governments have an opportunity. This moment is a chance to make your government services easier to use. An accessible website means less frustration and more participation.
Clear communication helps everyone
Government websites are often full of jargon, long sentences, and complex words. This leads to phone calls, emails, and mistakes on applications.
Accessibility is about clear communication for everyone. Websites with plain language, logical structures, and easy navigation reduce confusion and frustration. This helps 1 in 4 Americans who are living with a disability.
It also helps:
- People who are busy
- People who are stressed
- People who are distracted
- People who have something better to do
- Everyone else (including you)
The problem with PDFs
Government websites often rely heavily on PDFs. PDFs can be a barrier, especially if they are not properly formatted. If a PDF is not accessible, they are useless to people who rely on assistive technology.
They are also slow to load, hard to read on mobile, and people don’t like them.
A better approach is to default to web text whenever possible. If a PDF is needed, make sure it’s accessible.
How accessibility makes things better
This new law increases digital access for millions of Americans with physical and cognitive disabilities. It also makes content better for many millions more.
Consider live or recorded videos of city council meetings. Captions help people with hearing impairments. They also help people watching them in noisy environments or who don’t want to disturb others.
Or take online application forms. Clear, well-labeled fields and straightforward instructions lead to fewer mistakes and quicker responses. Residents benefit from faster service, and government employees spend less time clarifying requests.
During emergencies, accessible websites can save lives. Clear, structured information helps everyone find critical directives fast. It connects people to alerts and services during times of extreme stress.
Accessibility as opportunity
Don’t treat accessibility as just another regulation. See it as a way to transform your service delivery. These improvements:
- Cut down on customer service demand
- Reach wider audiences
- Build trust
Trust grows when government removes barriers. Paying a parking ticket doesn’t have to be delightful. But it should be easy for everyone to do so they can move on with their day.
Take this opportunity seriously. Accessible government websites aren’t just compliant. They’re fundamentally better. Better for young parents, busy professionals, older adults, students—better for everyone. Prioritize accessibility to make civic things simpler, safer, and easier to use.