What Is Section 508 Versus WCAG and Does It Matter?
Accessibility in digital content is critical for creating an inclusive online experience. Two key terms often come up in this context — Section 508 and Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). While they are related, they are not the same. Understanding their differences is essential for organizations managing websites, apps, or electronic documents.
Section 508: United States Federal Law
Section 508 originates from the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and became federal law in 1986. Its purpose was to ensure that people with disabilities could access electronic and information technology.
Key Updates in Section 508 History
- 1986: Section 508 introduced as part of the Rehabilitation Act, but initial adoption lacked enforcement and clear guidelines.
- 1998: Congress updated the law, requiring federal agencies to make technology accessible.
- 2017-2018: The U.S. Access Board refreshed Section 508, enhancing standards for federal agencies and organizations receiving federal funds. This update incorporated WCAG 2.0 as the standard for web, software, and electronic document accessibility.
Takeaway: Section 508 is law in the United States and mandates that federal agencies and fund recipients acquire, develop, and maintain accessible technology.
WCAG: Global Accessibility Guidelines
The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) were created by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) through the Web Accessibility Initiative (WAI) in 1999. WCAG provides a set of globally recognized guidelines to help make web content accessible to people with disabilities.
Key WCAG Facts
- WCAG is not law, but a set of best-practice guidelines for web and digital accessibility.
- WCAG has evolved: versions 1.0, 2.0, 2.1, and 2.2 (draft) exist, with WCAG 3.0 under review.
- It applies to websites, apps, electronic documents, and other digital content.
Takeaway: WCAG serves as a global standard for accessible design, guiding organizations in making content usable for people with disabilities.
How Section 508 and WCAG Intersect
While Section 508 is U.S. law, WCAG is a guideline standard. The 2018 update of Section 508 adopted WCAG 2.0 for federal websites, software, and electronic document accessibility.
- Section 508 = Federal law (U.S.)
- WCAG = Global accessibility guidelines
- Section 508 compliance often requires adherence to WCAG standards
This is why people sometimes confuse the two — one mandates compliance with the other.
Implications for the Private Sector
Private organizations may not be legally bound to Section 508, but accessibility still matters:
- The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) applies to private sector websites and apps.
- Courts often use WCAG standards to evaluate digital accessibility in ADA-related lawsuits.
Notable Cases
- Winn-Dixie (2017): Florida court required the grocery chain to update its website to meet WCAG 2.0 AA standards.
- Domino’s Pizza (2019): U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear an appeal, reinforcing that ADA applies to business websites.
Takeaway: Compliance with WCAG is critical for private organizations to avoid legal risk and create an inclusive digital experience.
Why Understanding the Difference Matters
- Legal compliance: Section 508 is mandatory for federal agencies; WCAG is referenced in legal cases for the private sector.
- Global accessibility: WCAG provides best practices for making digital content accessible worldwide.
- Inclusive society: Following these standards ensures technology is usable by people of all abilities.
Organizations putting content online should prioritize both Section 508 (if federally related) and WCAG to ensure accessibility, compliance, and inclusivity.
Back to You
Section 508 and WCAG are not interchangeable. Section 508 is a federal law in the United States, while WCAG is a set of globally recognized accessibility guidelines. Understanding and implementing both ensures your websites, apps, and digital documents are accessible, legally compliant, and inclusive for all users.