21st Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act of 2010 (CVAA)
What Is the CVAA?
The 21st Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act (CVAA) is a U.S. law that ensures people with disabilities have better access to modern communication technologies. Passed in 2010, the CVAA updates older accessibility laws to include new digital services like streaming video, smartphones, and internet-based communication tools.
Key Requirements of the CVAA
The law has several important rules to make technology more accessible:
1. Accessible Smartphones & Devices
- Mobile phones and other devices must be usable by people with hearing or vision disabilities.
- This includes features like hearing aid compatibility and screen reader support.
2. Closed Captioning for Online Video
- TV shows and movies streamed online must include closed captions, just like traditional TV broadcasts.
3. Accessible Video Conferencing & Messaging
- Video calling and messaging apps must work with assistive technologies (e.g., screen readers for text messages).
4. Emergency Information for People Who Are Deaf or Hard of Hearing
- Emergency alerts on TV must be both audible and visible (e.g., text or on-screen alerts).
5. Accessible Menus on TVs & Streaming Devices
- Settings and program guides on TVs and streaming devices must be usable with screen readers.
Important Dates
Enacted: October 8, 2010
Compliance Deadlines: Different parts of the law rolled out between 2012 and 2016, depending on the technology.
Based on Official Documentation
This explanation is based on the official Federal Communications Commission (FCC) guide. For more details, visit:
https://www.fcc.gov/consumers/guides/21st-century-communications-and-video-accessibility-act-cvaa