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HB 2541

Information Technology Access Act; digital accessibility, definitions, procurement requirements.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Elizabeth Bennett-Parker and 10 co-sponsors

Virginia requires state agencies to procure and maintain accessible IT systems and establishes digital accessibility standards to include people with disabilities in government technology.

Acts of Assembly Chapter text (CHAP0571)
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Bill Summary · HB 2541

Legislative bill overview

HB 2541 establishes digital accessibility requirements for information technology in Virginia by defining accessibility standards, mandating procurement practices that prioritize accessible products and services, and creating compliance mechanisms for state agencies. The bill requires state entities to consider digital accessibility when purchasing or acquiring IT resources, and establishes definitions aligned with federal accessibility standards.

Why is this important

Approximately 26% of Virginia adults have some type of disability, and inaccessible technology creates barriers to employment, education, and government services. This law ensures people with disabilities can meaningfully access state technology systems and services, while also potentially reducing long-term costs by preventing expensive retrofitting of inaccessible systems after purchase.

Potential points of contention

  • Implementation costs: State agencies must audit existing systems and potentially replace non-compliant technology, requiring budget allocations that may strain agency resources
  • Private sector applicability: The bill focuses on state procurement; critics may argue private businesses should face similar requirements, while others contend government should avoid overregulating private IT practices
  • Accessibility standard definitions: Determining what constitutes sufficient "accessibility" and which technical standards apply (WCAG, Section 508, etc.) may create ambiguity in enforcement and compliance

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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