Digital Accessibility Update: Timeline Extension and Current State

Take note!

We are sharing an update regarding new federal guidance on digital accessibility.

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has extended the federal digital accessibility compliance deadline for public institutions by one year, to April 26, 2027. As Virginia’s Information Technology Access Act aligns with the DOJ’s federal accessibility requirements, both Virginia law and University Policy IRM-008 are interpreted to follow the federal timeline.

While UVA’s compliance date has been extended, our expectations and commitments remain the same, to ensure that our services, programs, and activities offered are accessible to individuals with disabilities in accordance with Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

• Roles and Responsibilities

The ADA Coordinator Team is leading the review and decision-making related to this update. Procurement Services’ role is to support the process once guidance is provided.

• Where Things Stand Today

Until updated guidance is shared:

• Digital accessibility should remain a consideration in your procurement process. Please review UVAFinance’s Digital Accessibility webpage.
  • School and unit leaders should continue to support their faculty, staff, and Digital Accessibility Liaisons in this effort and to map out a strategy for compliance.
• While changes to the procurement process are coming, this does extend the previous deadline of April 24, 2026.
  • This extension allows the ADA Coordinator Team additional time to review and refine the processes, making sure that there is full clarity and consistency with future guidance.

• What to Expect Next

In the next few weeks, we will share updates as soon as:

• The ADA Coordinator Team finalizes guidance for UVA, and
• Clear and practical guidance is developed for your procurement operations.

We appreciate your understanding while this important work is underway. Our goal is to provide clear, consistent, and easy to follow guidance as soon as more information becomes available.