Our Commitment to Digital Accessibility
We are committed to ensuring digital accessibility for all people. Digital accessibility means ensuring that websites, applications, documents, and other online tools can be used by everyone, including people with disabilities. Accessible digital content includes features such as screen reader–compatible text, captions for videos, and navigation that can be completed using only a keyboard. These practices help ensure that individuals who are blind, deaf, or have mobility or cognitive disabilities can access our information and services.
Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the U.S. Department of Justice requires state and local government agencies to ensure that their digital services are accessible. This includes meeting recognized accessibility standards such as the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). The Virginia Department of Corrections requires that all digital content and information and communication technology (ICT) meets WCAG 2.1 Level AA standards, with a goal of meeting WCAG 2.2 Level AA whenever possible, in alignment with federal and state accessibility requirements.
At the Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC), digital accessibility is a shared responsibility. The Digital Accessibility Coordinator role operates collaboratively across agency departments and the Information Technology Unit (ITU) to support accessibility across all digital platforms and content. This collaborative effort provides guidance, training, and technical support to help staff create and maintain accessible digital resources for employees, partners, and the public.
Encountered an Accessibility Barrier?
Our Process for Addressing Barriers
When you report an accessibility barrier, here's what happens:
Submit the Form
Complete the information requested on the Report an Accessibility Barrier form. If the user needs a reasonable accommodation to communicate his or her barrier, such as an interpreter, scribe, or alternative format, please contact the Digital Accessibility Coordinator directly to arrange for an accommodation for effective communication.
Review and Investigate
Within 15 calendar days of receipt of the barrier, the Digital Accessibility Coordinator or designee will meet with the user in person, over the phone, or virtually to discuss the complaint and resolution options.
Resolution and Response
Within 30 calendar days of the meeting, the Digital Accessibility Coordinator or designee will provide a written response, including any remediation updates, in an accessible format when appropriate. All requests submitted to the Digital Accessibility Coordinator or their designee, along with the corresponding responses, will be retained for at least 2 years
Need help or have questions?
For assistance with digital accessibility, training opportunities, or guidance on creating accessible content, please contact the Digital Accessibility Coordinator.
Digital Accessibility Coordinator
digitalaccessibility@vadoc.virginia.govAccessibility Resources
Our Accessibility Roadmap
A plan to build inclusive digital experiences for all audiences
VA HB2541
This bill makes numerous changes to the existing Information Technology Access Act and defines "information and communications technology" as it relates to digital accessibility.
WCAG 2.1 Guidelines
An introduction to the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) international standard, including documents explaining how to make web content more accessible to people with disabilities.
ADA.gov
This guidance describes how state and local governments and businesses open to the public can make sure that their websites are accessible to people with disabilities as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).