Section 508 Limitations
As someone who is mobility impaired and has difficulty using a keyboard, I have a real issue with Section 508. By requiring sites to be accessible only if a user has a screen reader in their computer, to many people with disabilities are excluded. Section 508 is the equivalent of saying if you bring your own ramp to my restaurant, you will be able to get in. I'm glad the DOJ is finally recognizing that it is more than ...more »
As someone who is mobility impaired and has difficulty using a keyboard, I have a real issue with Section 508. By requiring sites to be accessible only if a user has a screen reader in their computer, to many people with disabilities are excluded. Section 508 is the equivalent of saying if you bring your own ramp to my restaurant, you will be able to get in. I'm glad the DOJ is finally recognizing that it is more than just people who are blind or visually impaired (not all of whom have screen readers anyhow) who require an under ADA are entitled to full online accessibly. That means voice to text and text to voice capability, regardless of whether or not someone has a screen reader. At long last, the DOJ is finally recognizing that ADA was written before the internet explosion and is for the first time making clear that if a business has a brick and motor presence requiring reasonable accommodation for people with disabilities, that that requirement not extends to it's website. Finally, there is an even playing field for all people with disabilities regardless of their impairment.
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