Accessibility Legislation

The Government of Canada and various provinces are working towards making Canada a more inclusive, barrier-free country.

Confused about the federal or provincial laws that impact you and maybe your organization? Here’s an overview of current and proposed legislation to keep you on top of accessibility requirements and timelines.

Source: Siteimprove

Canada

On June 21, 2019 the Accessible Canada Act (ACA) received Royal Assent, making it law in Canada. The Accessible Canada Act is federal accessibility legislation introduced to ensure a barrier-free Canada and to enhance the full and equal participation of all persons, especially persons with disabilities, in society.

For more information about the Act, visit the Parliament of Canada website – Bill C-81.

British Columbia

In 2014, British Columbia announced its Accessibility 2024 plan to make British Columbia (B.C.) the most progressive province in Canada for people with disabilities by 2024. Included in the plan is the objective to make internet access in B.C. the most accessible in Canada. The B.C. government is committed to building a better province for people with disabilities by working with the disability and business communities to help create opportunities for meaningful employment, support greater independence, and provide full community participation for people with disabilities.

For more information, visit the Government of British Columbia website.

Ontario

The Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) aims to identify, remove, and prevent barriers for people with disabilities.  The AODA became law on June 13, 2005 and applies to all levels of government, nonprofits, and private sector businesses in Ontario that have one or more employees (full-time, part-time, seasonal, or contract). 

For more information about the Act, visit the Ontario.ca website – AODA.