Web Standards and Accessibility Language for State Contracts (Division of Purchases)

Memorandum

To: All Contract Administrators, RFP Developers and Directors of Administrative and Financial Services
From: Richard B. Thompson, CIO, and Betty Lamoreau, Director, Division of Purchases
cc: Rebecca Wyke, Commissioner
Date: Monday, June 6, 2005
Subject: Web Standards and Accessibility

State agencies are required to ensure that all computer applications and websites be accessible to people with disabilities and that they comply with the Americans with Disability Act. The requirements established in the policies and standards passed by the Information Systems Policy Board (ISPB) are a significant first step in enhancing accessibility to persons with disabilities, and frequently improve the overall ease of access to all users.

The standard with which agencies must comply for software application development can be found on the following website:

Computer Application Program Accessibility Standard

The policy and standard with which agencies must comply for web development can be found on the following websites:

Maine State Web Standards

Website Accessibility Policy of the State of Maine

Effective immediately, the Division of Purchases and the Office of the CIO require that this text be included in all request for proposals (RFPs) which require web development, application development, software licenses or enhancements. The standards must also be used in all sole source or renewal contracts for similar services.

Waivers to these requirements will be considered on a case by case, but every effort must be made to achieve the highest degree of compliance.

Thank you for your continued efforts. The Division of Purchases and the Office of the CIO are happy to assist wherever possible.

OIT INFORMATION

Web Standards and Accessibility Language for State Contracts (Division of Purchases)