Colorado Law & WCAG 2.1

Digital Accessibility & Governance 

WCAG 2.1: The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 are internationally recognized standards for digital accessibility. WCAG 2.1 is structured around four principles: content must be perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust (POUR). It provides specific criteria to ensure web and digital content is accessible to individuals with various disabilities. WCAG is used as a benchmark for designing accessible websites and online materials, with three levels of compliance: A, AA, and AAA. 

Colorado HB 21-1110: Colorado House Bill 21-1110 requires all state and local government entities to ensure their digital content complies with accessibility standards, specifically WCAG 2.1 Level AA. This legislation aligns state law with federal ADA requirements by using WCAG 2.1 Level AA as the standard for accessible digital content. It highlights the importance of providing equal access to online information and services for individuals with disabilities, reinforcing the need for compliance with both Section 508 and WCAG standards across Colorado’s public institutions, including our university.