Websites and Software Applications Accessibility Act of 2026

Key Points

• This bill requires all websites and mobile apps used by employers, government agencies, and businesses open to the public to be fully accessible to people with disabilities. It covers job applications, government services, online shopping, and any digital tool used to interact with the public.
• The bill settles a legal debate by declaring that ADA protections apply to the digital world, including online-only businesses with no physical location. Some courts had ruled the ADA only covers physical places, but this bill explicitly rejects that interpretation.
• Software developers and web design companies that build digital products for covered businesses or government would also be legally responsible for making those products accessible. They could face lawsuits if they deliver inaccessible websites or apps.
• Small businesses get extra time and financial help to comply. They would receive up to 3 years after the final rules are issued (instead of 30 days for larger entities) and could apply for grants of up to $10,000 to fix their websites and apps.
• People with disabilities could sue for damages and attorney's fees without first notifying the company or going through an administrative process. The DOJ and EEOC would set and enforce the specific technical standards, updating them every 3 years.
• The bill authorizes $35.15 million per year for 10 years (fiscal years 2027-2036) to fund technical assistance, grants to small businesses, enforcement, and periodic reviews of whether the law is working.

Votes

No votes have been recorded for this legislation yet.