Section 508, The Electronic and Information Technology Standards, is a Federal law requiring most US Government electronic information services to be accessible to persons with disabilities. This means that any materials presented in an online format on US Government websites must be designed to standards that insure compatibility with assistive technology. The impact of the law is widespread because anyone wishing to do business with the Federal government must also comply with Section 508.

Individual states are enacting state laws to assure compliance with Section 508.  The Illinois Web Accessibility Standards (IWAS) are actually more stringent and detailed than Section 508 of the Federal law.

Section 508 may apply to you if your school or district accepts federal funds. Section 508 clearly applies to all Federal agencies, and by extension to those who wish to conduct business with the federal government. Websites for State and Local government agencies most likely fall under 508 Guidelines.  This depends on state adoption of Section 508 standards.  On February 14, 2002, the Illinois Web Accessibility Standards (IWAS) were put into effect by administrative order of the Governor.   IWAS has adapted both Section 508 and W3C standards.  The administrative order directs Illinois agencies to utilize the Illinois Web Accessibility Standards for the development of web sites, intranets, and web-based applications.   Detailed descriptions of accessibility requirements are available at the IWAS website. http://www.illinois.gov/iwas