Senate committee advances bill shifting digital accessibility liability from school districts to vendors

Senators advanced legislation that would require vendors who supply digital content, applications or platforms to assume liability if their products fail to meet Colorado's accessibility standards, rather than leaving school districts on the hook.

Proponents say the bill clarifies responsibility for web- and software-accessibility enforcement and shields districts from fines when third parties supply inaccessible technology. "This bill creates the right incentives," said Nathan Fall, legal counsel for Greeley-Evans School District 6, during remote testimony. "Vendors who invest in accessibility gain a competitive advantage while schools can refocus resources on serving students rather than managing legal and financial risk."

The bill as discussed in committee would extend the liability-shifting approach in a prior accessibility measure referenced as HB 21 11 10 to school-related contracts. Sponsors said the measure allows districts to keep…