State of Delaware Digital Accessibility Policy
The State of Delaware is committed to making its digital services usable by everyone. This includes people with disabilities, people who use assistive technology, and people accessing content in different ways or environments.
This policy applies to State websites, online services, digital documents, and web-based tools provided or managed by the State of Delaware.
What Digital Accessibility Means
Digital accessibility means that people can use digital content regardless of ability or technology. It ensures that websites, documents, and online services work for a wide range of users and devices.- Navigate websites using a keyboard or assistive technology
- Read content using screen readers or text enlargement
- Understand information through clear structure and simple language
- Access videos and audio using captions or transcripts
- Complete forms and online tasks without confusion
Accessibility supports people with permanent disabilities, temporary injuries, age-related changes, and situational challenges such as limited internet access or mobile use.
Laws That Apply to Delaware
Delaware’s digital accessibility requirements are based on federal and state law. These laws protect civil rights and require accessible access to programs, services, and information.
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) — Title II
Under Title II of the ADA, state and local governments must ensure that programs, services, and activities are accessible to people with disabilities. This includes websites, online services, and digital communication.
The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) enforces the ADA and provides guidance on web accessibility for public entities.
Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act
Section 508 requires that electronic and information technology used by government entities be accessible.
This includes websites, digital documents, software, and tools.
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act
Section 504 prohibits disability-based discrimination in federally funded programs and services, including digital services.
Delaware Code
Delaware law supports nondiscrimination in State programs and services, including digital access.
Digital Accessibility Standards We Follow
The State of Delaware follows the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1, Levels A and AA. These standards help ensure that digital content is perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust for a wide range of users.
WCAG 2.1
WCAG applies to websites, web applications, PDFs, online forms, multimedia, and third-party tools used to deliver State services.
Delaware’s Digital Accessibility & Equity Master Plan
Delaware’s accessibility work is guided by the State of Delaware Digital Accessibility & Equity Master Plan. The plan outlines how the State is improving accessibility across agencies, including governance, training, testing, remediation, and ongoing monitoring.
Best Practices for Creating Accessible Digital Content
Accessibility should be considered during design, development, content creation, and updates. These best practices help prevent common barriers:
Structure and Readability
- Use headings in order (H2, H3, H4)
- Keep paragraphs short and clear
- Use meaningful link text (avoid “click here”)
- Provide labels and help text for form fields
Visual and Interaction Design
- Ensure sufficient color contrast
- Don’t rely on color alone to convey meaning
- Support keyboard navigation
- Use alt text for important images
How to Check My Content for Digital Accessibility
Many accessibility issues can be identified using built-in tools before content is published. These links explain how to run checks and fix common issues.
Tip: If you publish PDFs, create accessible structure in Word first (headings, lists, alt text), then verify tags and reading order in Acrobat.
Feedback and Support
If you experience difficulty accessing a State of Delaware website, document, or online service, we want to know.
- Report an accessibility issue
- Request information in an alternative format
- Share feedback or suggestions
Online Form: Report an Accessibility Issue
Email: dti_digital_accessibility@delaware.gov