Illinois DoIT Advises State Agencies Not to Use Accessibility Widgets

The Illinois Department of Innovation & Technology (DoIT) recently issued guidance advising state agencies against the use of accessibility overlays and widgets on their websites. These tools, often marketed as quick fixes to make sites compliant, have been widely criticized by people with disabilities and accessibility experts for creating more barriers than they remove.

DoIT’s stance reflects a growing understanding that true accessibility cannot be achieved through automated add-ons. Instead, it requires thoughtful design, proper coding, and ongoing maintenance to ensure that all users, including those who rely on assistive technologies, can access online information equally.

For those of us who advocate for accessibility in public spaces, it is encouraging to see a government entity taking meaningful, informed steps toward inclusion. Unfortunately, such progress remains rare. Many local governments and public spaces continue to rely on overlays instead of addressing the underlying accessibility issues within their websites, an approach that often adds new obstacles for screen reader and keyboard users.

Illinois’ decision is a reminder that accessibility is a commitment, not a checkbox. Building inclusive digital experiences from the ground up is the only sustainable way to ensure that everyone, regardless of ability, can fully participate in our digital communities.

Read the full article from the Illinois Department of Innovation & Technology