UC Asks for Feedback About Proposed IT Accessibility Policy

The University of California is seeking input on a proposed systemwide policy on information technology (IT) accessibility.

The draft policy and requirements documents, which are available online, were developed by the UC Electronic Accessibility Leadership Team Council (EALT), a standing committee of the UC Information Technology Leadership Council with input from other systemwide groups.

The proposed policy affirms the University's commitment to creating an IT environment accessible to everyone, in particular individuals with disabilities.

The requirements document sets web technology standards and outlines the high-level components of IT accessibility programs to be established at each campus, while allowing for significant campus flexibility and innovation.

A 60-day comment period has been scheduled, closing on July 22. Comments should be sent to [email protected] After the comment period closes, the EALT will revised the documents based on the input received. The documents also will be reviewed by the Academic Senate prior to being submitted to the University of California Policy Steering Committee for final review and approval. The Policy Steering Committee is appointed by the UC President to oversee the policymaking process to ensure that policies are in line with Regental policy, regulatory mandates and the University's mission.

"As a public insitution, it is important for the University to ensure that its electronic information, programs and services are accessible to everyone," says Nathan Brostrom, executive vice president at UC. "Thank you for your support of the process to develop an IT accessibility policy for UC."