Explore Digital Accessibility Regulations
The Unruh Civil Rights Act: California’s Anti-Discrimination Law
The Unruh Civil Rights Act is a California civil rights law that requires businesses to provide equal access to goods, services, and accommodations without discrimination. It applies to many businesses serving customers in California, including organizations that offer digital products and services.
Who Does the Unruh Act Protect?
The Unruh Act protects individuals from discrimination based on a wide range of protected characteristics, including:
- Race and color
- Religion
- National origin and ancestry
- Mental or physical disability
- Medical condition
- Genetic information
- Marital status
- Sexual orientation
- Gender identity and gender expression
- Citizenship and immigration status
The law is broadly interpreted to promote equal treatment and inclusive access for everyone.
Who Must Comply?
Most businesses that provide goods or services to the public in California are expected to comply with the Unruh Act. This may include:
- Hotels, restaurants, and retail businesses
- Healthcare providers
- Financial institutions
- Real estate services
- E-commerce websites
- Mobile applications and digital platforms
Organizations located outside California may also have obligations if they serve California residents.
Accessibility and Digital Compliance
California courts have generally recognized that websites and mobile applications should be accessible to people with disabilities. Following recognized accessibility standards, such as WCAG Level AA, helps organizations create inclusive digital experiences and support compliance efforts.
How Does the Unruh Act Differ from the ADA?
While both laws promote equal access, they differ in scope:
- The Unruh Civil Rights Act is a California state law that protects against discrimination across multiple protected characteristics.
- The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a U.S. federal law focused on preventing disability discrimination nationwide.
Organizations operating in California should consider compliance with both laws.
Best Practices for Compliance
Organizations can strengthen accessibility and reduce legal risk by:
- Conducting accessibility audits of websites and mobile applications.
- Following WCAG Level AA accessibility guidelines.
- Testing with assistive technologies and manual accessibility reviews.
- Training employees on accessibility and non-discrimination practices.
- Publishing an accessibility statement.
- Continuously monitoring and improving digital accessibility.
Why It Matters
Creating accessible digital experiences benefits everyone. By proactively addressing accessibility, organizations can provide equal access, improve usability, support regulatory compliance, and demonstrate a commitment to inclusion.
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