Explore Digital Accessibility Regulations

The Twenty-First Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act (CVAA) is a U.S. federal law that requires advanced communication services and video programming to be accessible to people with disabilities. Enacted in 2010, the law modernized earlier accessibility requirements to address today’s digital communication technologies, including Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), electronic messaging, video conferencing, and online video content.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is responsible for enforcing the CVAA and providing guidance for organizations that develop communication technologies and video services.

Why CVAA Compliance Matters

The CVAA helps ensure that people with disabilities have equal access to modern communication services and digital media. Organizations that provide communication platforms, video content, or related technologies should consider accessibility throughout the design, development, and delivery process.

CVAA Title I: Communication Services

Title I focuses on making Advanced Communication Services (ACS) accessible. These services include:

• Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP)
• Electronic messaging and email
• Instant messaging and chat
• Video communications and video conferencing

Organizations developing these services should ensure compatibility with assistive technologies and incorporate accessibility into product design and user experiences.

CVAA Title II: Video Programming

Title II establishes accessibility requirements for television and online video programming, including:

• Closed captions
• Audio descriptions
• Accessible video players and user interfaces
• Emergency information in accessible formats

These requirements help ensure that video content is accessible to users who are deaf, hard of hearing, blind, or have low vision.

Key Accessibility Requirements

Organizations subject to the CVAA should:

• Provide accurate closed captions for covered video content.
• Support audio descriptions where required.
• Ensure communication services are compatible with assistive technologies.
• Design accessible user interfaces and controls.
• Make accessibility features easy to locate and use.
• Consider accessibility throughout product development and testing.

How Does CVAA Differ from WCAG?

The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) provide internationally recognized standards for web accessibility. While WCAG supports accessible digital experiences, the CVAA includes additional requirements specific to communication services and video programming, such as relay services, captioning, and telecommunications accessibility.

Following WCAG is an important step toward accessibility, but organizations covered by the CVAA should also ensure they meet the law’s communication- and media-specific requirements.

Exceptions

Certain types of content and services may be exempt from specific CVAA requirements. Organizations should review applicable FCC guidance to determine whether exemptions apply to their products or services.