Common Questions
Some FAQs are reprinted from the United States Access Board.
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What is Section 508?
Section 508 is a part of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, which requires that electronic and information technology developed, procured, maintained, or used by the federal government be accessible to people with disabilities. On August 7, 1998, the president of the United States signed into law the Workforce Investment Act of 1998, which includes the Rehabilitation Act Amendments of 1998. Section 508 was originally added to the Rehabilitation Act in 1986; the 1998 amendments significantly expand and strengthen the technology access requirements in Section 508.
To whom does Section 508 apply?
Section 508 applies to federal departments and agencies. It does not regulate the private sector and does not apply to recipients of federal funds.
Section 508 applies to contracts awarded on or after the effective date, June 25, 2001. For indefinite contracts, it is applicable to delivery orders or task orders issued on or after the effective date.
What does Section 508 require of federal agencies and departments?
Section 508 requires that when federal agencies develop, procure, maintain, or use electronic and information technology, they must ensure that it is accessible to people with disabilities, unless it would pose an undue burden to do so. Federal employees and members of the public who have disabilities must have access to and use of information and services that are comparable to the access and use available to nondisabled federal employees and members of the public.
What does "electronic and information technology" refer to?
For the purpose of Section 508, electronic and information technology refers to
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Software applications and operating systems
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Web-based intranet and Internet information and applications
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Telecommunications products
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Video and multimedia products
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Self-contained, closed products (e.g., kiosks)
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Desktop and portable computers