Use of Conforming Alternate Versions
State and local governments sometimes attempt to provide two versions of the same web or mobile app content:
- One version that is not accessible, and
- A separate version that is accessible and contains the same information and functionality.
The accessible version is referred to as a “conforming alternate version.”
In most circumstances, state and local governments should not maintain an inaccessible primary webpage alongside a separate accessible version of the same content. Individuals with disabilities are entitled to equal access to information and functionality on the same webpage or within the same mobile application.
Under applicable rules, conforming alternate versions may be used only in very limited circumstances. Specifically, a state or local government may rely on a conforming alternate version only when a technical or legal limitation makes it impossible to make the original web content or mobile application accessible.