Accessibility
For Alternate Access to Web Information
At this time, all SAMHSA information should be accessible via screen readers
and other accessibility tools with the exception of some pre-2001 information.
This information may not be available in accessible formats.
- If you need an alternative means of access to any information on the SAMHSA Web
site please contact us through our Web Requests system. Let
us know the nature of your accessibility problem, the Web address of the requested
information, and your contact information.
- If you need to convert PDF documents, Adobe® offers conversion tools at its
Accessibly Resource Center.
Synopsis of Section 508 Accessibility Requirements:
Section 508 requires
that when Federal agencies develop, procure, maintain, or use electronic and information
technology (EIT), Federal employees with disabilities have comparable access to
and use of information and data as Federal employees who have no disabilities, unless
an undue burden would be imposed on the agency. Section 508 also requires that individuals
with disabilities, who are members of the public seeking information or services
from a Federal agency, have comparable access to and use of information and data
as the public without disabilities, unless an undue burden would be imposed on the
agency.
Although Federal agencies have an explicit statutory obligation to make all EIT
that they develop, maintain or use compliant with Section 508, the current emphasis
is on newly procured EIT because it is the category that is explicitly enforceable
by legal action. Procurement awards made on or after June 25, 2001, are subject
to Section
508.
According to the Access Board,
the Section 508 requirements do not apply retroactively to pre-existing EIT. Specifically,
the "Electronic
and Information Technology Accessibility Standards: Economic Assessment,"
states that
"The standards are
to be applied prospectively and do not require Federal agencies to retrofit existing
electronic and information technology. As agencies upgrade and change their electronic
and information technology, they must comply with the standards." (See Chapter 2.1
Final Standards)
It should be noted, however, that other Federal regulations and guidelines require
equal access for individuals with disabilities. Therefore, Federal agencies are
required, upon request, to provide information and data to individuals with disabilities
through an alternative means of access that can be used by the individuals.
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