Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities by state and local governments. It covers all programs, services, and activities provided by public entities — from schools and courts to transportation systems, parks, and now digital services. Title II is one of the most powerful anti-discrimination tools available to people with disabilities in their interactions with government.
For over three decades, Title II has required physical accessibility in government facilities and program accessibility across government services. Now, following the Department of Justice's landmark 2024 final rule, Title II explicitly and enforceably extends to digital content: government websites, mobile applications, online forms, documents, and any web-based tools used to access public services.
Title II helps ensure that digital information and experiences can be used, understood, and participated in by all — including those with disabilities. This is not a new concept, but it now has the force of clearly defined, enforceable standards.
ADA Today
The 2026 Digital Accessibility Deadline
Large public entities — those serving populations of 50,000 or more — must comply with WCAG 2.1 Level AA for all web and mobile content by April 24, 2026. Smaller public entities and certain special district governments have until April 26, 2027. This covers a vast range of digital touchpoints: online portals for paying property taxes or utility bills, court filing systems, public health information sites, transit apps, municipal permit applications, and university course management systems.
Filing a Title II Complaint
If you believe a state or local government entity has violated your rights under Title II, you may file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Justice's Civil Rights Division, the relevant federal agency that provides funding to the entity, or pursue a private lawsuit in federal court. Documenting the specific inaccessible feature, the barrier it created, and the impact on your ability to access the service is important for any complaint process.
The ADA National Network provides free technical assistance on Title II requirements and can help both individuals and government agencies understand their rights and obligations. The network's regional centers are a valuable resource for navigating compliance questions.