In 1998, Congress amended the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 to require Federal agencies to make their electronic and information technology accessible to people with disabilities. Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act, as amended, was enacted to help facilitate disabled individuals’ access to electronic and information technology by removing barriers to their ability to access such technology.

Section 508 applies to all Federal agencies when they develop, procure, maintain or use electronic and information technology. The law requires agencies to provide disabled employees and disabled members of the public with access to electronic and information technology that is comparable to the access available to all others.

Section 508 creates a strong incentive for companies that manufacture and market technology products to add or enhance accessibility features in their products. The law does not regulate the technology industry or require private companies to alter their products. It does, however, establish accessibility standards that any technology must endeavor to meet before a Federal agency can purchase it.

Western Digital supports the goals of Section 508, and we are committed to evaluating ways to make our products more accessible to everyone, including individuals with disabilities or age-related impairments. Our commitment allows us to assist the Federal government in making accessible technology choices.

For more information on Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act, please access the following links:

Section 508: Center for IT Accommodation - www.section508.gov

Department of Justice Section 508 Home Page - www.usdoj.gov/crt/508/508home.html