The Biden administration proposed a new rule Tuesday that aims to improve online accessibility to state and local services for the "tens of millions" of Americans living with disabilities.
The rule itself, issued by the Department of Justice, is being proposed on the 33rd anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. DOJ will work with state and local governments to ensure that online services and apps will "meet their ADA obligation."
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"So many services have gone online in recent years, particularly in the wake of the pandemic. It is now more important than ever to ensure that there are clear standards for what state and local governments must do to make their online programs, services, and activities accessible to people with disabilities," a senior administration official said of Tuesday's announcement. "This issue affects the ability of disabled people to access court websites, public library services information about police services, public school materials, voter registration information, public hospital services, parking apps, public transit schedules, public benefits information, and so much more."
"President Biden has been completely clear that everyone in America has to be able to share in the benefits of technology, and that means a digital infrastructure that works for the 25% of Americans who are living with a disability," a second senior administration official added. "That's why digital accessibility is such a priority for the Biden-Harris administration."
The administration did not say when state and local governments must comply with the new rule, if adopted, but noted that both the federal government and the public would help to enforce compliance.
President Joe Biden's spending packages have directed billions in government funding to expand access to important services across the country. White House officials specifically singled out the $42.5 billion allocated by the Department of Commerce to expand internet access, which officials say is "especially important for people with disabilities who often rely heavily on the internet to access basic services."
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Earlier in the day, the administration also announced steps to make it easier for Americans to access "in-network mental healthcare."