Partnering with AccessiBE to Improve Digital Accessibility
OpenMedium is proud to announce our ongoing partnership with AccessiBE, a leader in digital accessibility solutions, to support public entities throughout Colorado in meeting the requirements set forth by House Bill 21-1110.
This landmark bill, which took effect on July 1, 2021, mandates that all state and local government websites adhere to the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.2 Level AA by July 1, 2024. Our services are geared towards helping these entities achieve compliance, thus fostering a more inclusive digital environment for all users, including those with disabilities.
Understanding House Bill 21-1110
House Bill 21-1110 is a significant step forward in digital inclusivity, integrating certain protections from the federal Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) into Colorado state law. The bill tasks state agencies with developing and implementing plans to ensure their online content is accessible according to the most recent WCAG standards. The Chief Information Officer in the Office of Information Technology is responsible for setting these accessibility standards.
Non-compliance with the bill by the set deadline could lead to monetary damages and fines, emphasizing the urgency for public bodies to align their digital resources with these guidelines. Additionally, an amendment introduced in May 2024 provides a one-year immunity from non-compliance penalties, available to those who demonstrate good-faith efforts by July 19, 2024.
How OpenMedium and AccessiBE Can Help
Our partnership leverages AccessiBE’s cutting-edge technologies and OpenMedium’s expertise in digital strategy to facilitate compliance. AccessiBE’s tools, including the acclaimed accessWidget, help automate significant aspects of the WCAG 2.2 Level AA conformance process, making it easier and more efficient for public entities to meet these rigorous standards.
Services provided through our collaboration include:
- Detailed accessibility audits
- Ongoing monitoring and reporting of compliance status
- Implementation of AccessiBE’s AI-driven solutions for real-time website adjustments
- Training and support for staff to manage and maintain web accessibility standards
Who Needs to Comply
House Bill 21-1110 applies to a broad range of Colorado’s public entities, including:
- State agencies
- Local government bodies such as city councils and county governments
- Content owners and developers responsible for digital content management within these entities
If you have filed for an extension or are struggling to achieve compliance, we encourage you to connect with us as soon as possible to discuss your project. OpenMedium, in collaboration with AccessiBE, offers customized compliance solutions designed to enhance your website’s accessibility and meet compliance. Let us guide you toward achieving comprehensive digital accessibility compliance and contribute to fostering an inclusive digital landscape.
