6.2: Section 508

Fully embrace the scope and intent of Section 508.

Other Information:

USDA fully embraces the scope and intent of Section 508. It is actively committed to ensuring that our customers and employees with disabilities have equity in the use of electronic and information technology. Accessibility allows Department agencies and staff offices to attract and retain the best talent, and maintain a productive workforce. Electronic and Information Technology (EIT) provides the tools that help USDA achieve its goals. Compliance with Section 508 ensures that the Department can include persons with and without disabilities in using EIT tools to further its goals to fulfill its mission. Consequently, Section 508 compliance contributes directly to the effective utilization of USDA’s workforce and the accomplishment of its mission. Specifically, it supports USDA's fifth strategic goal -- to operate an efficient, effective, and discrimination-free organization. The Department's public channels of communication that involve electronic and information technology also benefit from Section 508. One example of a specific USDA program tightly bound to the Section 508 requirement for accessibility of electronic and information technology to the public is the eGovernment Program. The program’s mission is to make the Department "electronically available any place, any time ... to transform and enhance the delivery of USDA’s programs, services and information.” Section 508 has specific requirements to make this program accessible. These requirements are designed to allow all persons, to receive Department services. Section 508 focuses both inside USDA and to its external public in its requirements for accessing electronic information.

Stakeholder(s):

• Customers with Disabilities


• Employees with Disabilities

Indicator(s):

Indicator:1

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