VA Needs to Prioritize Accessibility for Individuals with Disabilities When Procuring Information Technology Systems

To comply with Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, VA must make the information and communication technology it uses accessible to veterans with disabilities and anyone else seeking VA information. The OIG conducted this audit to follow up on a 2024 report on areas where VA’s implementation and monitoring of Section 508 requirements could be improved and to evaluate whether the procurement process for information and communication technology meets Section 508 standards.

The OIG team sampled 30 critical information technology and communications systems for review. The team did not independently verify compliance with Section 508 standards and relied on self-reporting by VA to assess progress and deficiencies. Of the 30 systems, VA’s Office of 508 Compliance classified only four as compliant. The OIG concluded that VA officials did not ensure the sampled information technology systems they procured would meet the accessibility standards required by law. The team also reviewed contract documentation for the 30 systems and found contracting officers and the designated officials for VA program offices did market research on vendors that could meet business requirements, but they took no additional action to verify that sampled systems were accessible to individuals with disabilities.

The OIG made four recommendations, including that the assistant secretary for information and technology ensure staff receive training and updated guidance on their roles and responsibilities. VA should also ensure the Office of 508 Compliance receives complete market research showing the technology VA seeks to procure is the most compliant under Section 508. The OIG also recommended the deputy assistant secretary for acquisition and logistics develop policies for ensuring information and communications technology procurements comply with Section 508.