ADA Compliance for Cannabis Companies
What is ADA for Cannabis Company Websites?
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates that all websites must be accessible to individuals with disabilities. This requirement means that simply having a website is not enough. For cannabis sites, ADA compliance should include features such as audio options and text alternatives for those with visual impairments. Ensuring your website meets these accessibility standards can help you avoid costly lawsuits and discrimination claims, potentially saving your business tens of thousands of dollars. By making your site accessible, you not only adhere to legal requirements but also broaden your audience and enhance user experience for everyone.
Can You be Sued for Not Being ADA Compliant?
While it might seem like a fearmongering tactic to push services, the concern about ADA compliance is very real. The first major ADA lawsuit occurred in 2019 when Beyoncé faced legal action due to her website's non-compliance. Since then, there has been a significant increase in federal website accessibility lawsuits.
According to the Wall Street Journal, in 2021, companies with revenues below $50 million were the targets of two-thirds of these lawsuits from January 1 to June 21, a notable increase from the previous year. E-commerce companies are particularly vulnerable, accounting for 74% of federal cases during this period. Other sectors, including digital media, finance, food service, and healthcare, also face lawsuits but to a lesser extent. Ensuring ADA compliance not only protects against potential legal issues but also helps make your website accessible to a broader audience.
How Hard is It to Make Your Site ADA Compliant?
Given the ambiguity around what constitutes an ADA violation, demonstrating that you are actively working toward compliance can be beneficial. Simply showing that you are making an effort to improve accessibility can help mitigate legal risks. We can implement ADA compliance solutions for your website to ensure it meets accessibility standards and protects your business.