Department of Justice Seeks Public Comment on Proposed Rule to Strengthen Web and Mobile App Access for People with Disabilities
The Department of Justice (DOJ) has issued a notice of proposed rulemaking under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) that aims to improve web and mobile applications (apps) access for people with disabilities and clarify how public entities, primarily state and local governments, can meet their existing ADA obligations as many of their activities shift online. The public can submit comments through October 3, 2023.
Across the U.S., people routinely rely on web and mobile apps to access a variety of vital public programs and services, such as employment and educational resources, voting information, health and emergency services, parking, and transit schedules. The proposed rule is particularly significant in the wake of the pandemic, as public entities have significantly increased the scope of essential services and programs offered through the web and mobile apps. It is critical for these technologies to be accessible for people with disabilities.
DOJ invites written comments and input from the public and relevant stakeholders on the regulatory proposal via any of the following methods:
- Federal Register: Select the “Submit a Formal Comment” link at the top of the notice and follow the instructions.
- Regulations.gov e-rulemaking portal: Select “Comment” link and follow the instructions.
- Regular U.S. Mail:
- Disability Rights Section
- Civil Rights Division
- U.S. Department of Justice
- P.O. Box 440528
- Somerville, MA 02144
- Overnight, Courier, or Hand Delivery:
- Disability Rights Section
- Civil Rights Division
- U.S. Department of Justice
- 150 M St. NE, 9th Floor
- Washington, DC 20002
For background and more information, access the docket via www.regulations.gov/document/DOJ-CRT-2023-0007-0001/. For further information, contact Rebecca B. Bond, Chief, Disability Rights Section, Civil Rights Division, U.S. Department of Justice, at 1-202-307–0663 (voice or TTY). This is not a toll-free number. Information may also be obtained from the Department’s toll-free ADA Information Line at 1-800-514-0301 (voice) or 1-833-610-1264 (TTY). For more information on the ADA, please call the Department’s toll-free ADA Information Line at 800-514-0301 (TDD 800-514-0383) or visit the ADA website.