Web accessibility in the public administration in Spain is an issue of vital importance to guarantee the equality of all individuals when accessing the different web portals of the public sector. In this article, we will explore the established regulations and obligations, as well as possible sanctions for non-compliance with web accessibility.
What is the current accessibility regulations for public administration?
The current regulation that requires public administration web portals to comply with the established criteria is Royal Decree 1112/2018, of September 7 on accessibility of websites and applications for mobile devices in the public sector.
Its main objective is to ensure that people with disabilities can access and use online services on equal terms regardless of their limitations.
This Royal Decree establishes that websites and mobile applications of public administrations must comply with the accessibility requirements established in the international standard WCAG 2.1, level AA. This involves providing features and functionality that make it easier for people with disabilities to navigate and understand information.
What level of accessibility do public sector websites have to have?
Specifically in the public sector, current legislation establishes that Public Administrations must comply with at least level AA of accessibility in their content and web applications.
The AA level of accessibility requires public administrations to provide some key aspects, such as the use of alternative text for images, adequate color contrast, descriptive labels for interactive elements, a clear organization and structure of information, and accessibility options for people with hearing or visual disabilities.
Meeting these requirements allows people with disabilities to access and use public administrations’ online services effectively.
Although the minimum established is level AA, there is the possibility of reaching a higher level of excellence in web accessibility, known as level AAA. Although it is not mandatory, reaching this level represents an ideal standard for the website to become a reference, offering advantages in terms of reputation and visibility.
What are the sanctions if the web portal of a public institution is not accessible?
In the event of non-compliance with these obligations, the Royal Decree establishes financial fines that can vary from a minimum of 301 euros to a maximum of 1,000,000 euros, depending on the severity and recurrence of the non-compliance. For minor infractions, the penalty will not exceed 30,000 euros, while, for serious infractions, it will not exceed 90,000 euros.
Furthermore, failure to comply with accessibility obligations can have reputational and legal implications, as it can affect the image of the public administration and give rise to lawsuits for discrimination or exclusion of people with disabilities.
In summary, sanctions for non-compliance with web accessibility obligations in public administrations may include warnings, correction requirements and financial fines.
It is important that public administrations comply with these obligations to guarantee equal access to online services and avoid possible legal and reputational consequences.
What are the accessibility justification deadlines for my web portal?
RD 1112/2018 came into force on September 20, 2018 and established that all newly created websites referring to the public sector since that date should comply with the established requirements, so we are talking about a practically immediate requirement from its entry into force.
For mobile applications of public institutions, it took longer to require this adaptation. Specifically, this requirement was imposed in June 2021.
So in terms of accessibility, if your web portal or mobile application belongs to a public administration and does not yet have the established minimum level, you will have to face this challenge urgently, since you would be out of time.
What is the role of Your Accessible Web in the process?
At Your accessible website, we have an expert team in web accessibility, made up of expert consultants and auditors. Nos ajustamos a las necesidades de cada proyecto para cumplir con el RD 1112/2018.
Our services include consulting with personalized advice, auditing according to WCAG 2.1 and EN 301 549 standards, and evaluation of accessible web portals. It is up to you to choose the right team of web accessibility specialists to ensure that your website does not have limitations for any individual.
If you have any questions about the accessibility of your web portal or want to know more about the matter, do not hesitate to contact us.
