Under the American Disabilities Act, state and local government agencies are required to ensure that all of their services, programs, and activities are accessible and available to people with disabilities. Whether it’s a city office, county service, public school, or emergency response program — every level of government must operate in a way that gives people with disabilities the same opportunities to participate as everyone else.

This page explains what these requirements mean, how they apply in practice, and provides easy‑to‑understand answers to common questions.

Understanding the Core Purpose of the American Disabilities Act for Government Services

The American Disabilities Act was enacted to end discrimination on the basis of disability. When it comes to state and local governments, this law ensures that individuals with disabilities can fully take part in civic life. That means:

Every government program, service, and activity must be open and accessible, regardless of a person’s abilities.

Physical spaces, communication methods, policies, and procedures must be designed or modified so that people with disabilities are not left out.

This applies even if the government is small or has limited resources — accessibility is not optional.

State and local governments must evaluate their operations regularly to identify and remove barriers to access.

How State and Local Governments Must Provide Equal Access

1. Services and Programs Must Be Equally Available

Government agencies cannot deny access to programs or services based on disability. All individuals must have the same chance to benefit from what the government offers, whether it’s:

Education services

Public transportation and recreation programs

Health and social services

Court systems and voting facilities

Emergency response

License renewal or public meetings

These services must be delivered in ways that ensure meaningful participation — not just physical presence.

2. Communication Must Be Accessible

When governments communicate with the public — whether by phone, written notice, online, or in person — they must ensure that individuals with various disabilities can receive and understand the information. This can include:

Providing sign language interpreters

Offering materials in large print or digital formats

Making online content usable with assistive technologies

Effective communication is a core part of providing equal access.

3. Physical Accessibility in Government Buildings

Buildings owned or operated by public agencies must be accessible. Features like:

Ramps and elevators

Accessible pathways and doorways

Accessible restrooms

…are required so that someone using mobility devices can move independently and safely through the space. This also includes reasonable changes to policies when necessary to ensure access.

New Accessibility Rules for Modern Challenges

In recent years, the Department of Justice has updated regulations affecting state and local governments, including:

Web and Mobile Accessibility Requirements

Public entities must ensure that their websites and mobile applications are usable by people with disabilities. This includes following accessibility standards for:

Text alternatives for images

Keyboard navigation

Screen‑reader compatibility

New rules guide how governments should meet these requirements to improve access to digital services.

Accessibility of Medical Diagnostic Equipment

When governments provide medical services or use medical devices, those devices must be accessible to people with disabilities. Rules outline how facilities and equipment must be designed or altered to meet accessibility goals.