Understanding California AB 1757 and What You Can Expect

California AB 1757 introduces new regulations that will impact businesses, web developers, and digital service providers operating in the state or serving California consumers. While much of the focus has been on corporate compliance and reporting, this law also has major implications for website accessibility, website design, and web development practices.

Businesses must prepare for compliance to avoid penalties, operational disruptions, and reputational risks. In addition to updating reporting processes and regulatory strategies, companies with online platforms will need to reassess their website design and functionality to meet new accessibility and compliance requirements. Developers and designers will play a key role in ensuring compliance, as AB 1757 sets new expectations for website accessibility and digital compliance that could reshape how websites are built and maintained.

What is AB 1757?

California AB 1757 expands business and web compliance regulations in California, requiring companies to increase transparency, improve reporting, and meet stricter operational standards. The law affects industries such as eCommerce, technology, manufacturing, and logistics, but it also introduces new liabilities for web developers and website design service providers.

One of the most controversial aspects of AB 1757 is the legal liability placed on web developers, designers, and agencies. The bill holds anyone involved in website creation, maintenance, or management accountable if a site does not meet accessibility standards. However, the law does not clearly define how compliance is measured, making enforcement uncertain and raising concerns about frivolous lawsuits and excessive litigation.

AB 1757 aligns with California’s ongoing efforts to strengthen accessibility and corporate accountability. Businesses that fail to comply may face fines, legal action, or restrictions on their ability to operate. The law does not provide a grace period, meaning businesses must ensure compliance immediately upon enactment to avoid penalties.

How AB 1757 Affects Web Developers and Designers

This law introduces significant risks for web developers, web designers, and agencies that create and manage websites for businesses.

• Increased Liability for Developers: AB 1757 makes website developers legally responsible if the sites they create do not meet undefined website accessibility standards. Since there is no universally accepted objective test for compliance, developers may face lawsuits for violations they cannot clearly measure or prevent.
• Higher Costs for Businesses and Agencies: Businesses will need to pay for continuous compliance testing and updates, significantly raising website maintenance costs. Small and micro businesses that cannot afford ongoing certifications may shut down their websites entirely rather than risk legal exposure.
• A Potential Mass Exit of Developers from California: Many web developers may leave the state due to the legal risks and uncertainty that come with maintaining websites under AB 1757. Businesses may struggle to find experienced developers willing to work on California-based sites, leading to higher costs and limited options for web development services.
• Website Certification and Constant Retesting: AB 1757 suggests businesses may need to obtain expensive website certifications, but these certifications expire whenever a site undergoes updates that affect accessibility. Frequent changes, such as adding new products, services, or content, could require monthly retesting, which is both costly and impractical for most businesses.

As a result, small businesses and medium-sized businesses may face steep costs to maintain compliant websites, and developers may be reluctant to take on projects in California due to unclear standards and potential lawsuits.

How Companies Can Prepare for AB 1757 Compliance

To comply with AB 1757, businesses must ensure their websites and digital platforms meet accessibility standards. This means companies need to review their websites, fix accessibility issues, and put systems in place to stay compliant. Failing to do so could lead to lawsuits, fines, or restrictions on business operations.

The first step is to conduct an accessibility audit to check for problems like missing alt text, poor keyboard navigation, and color contrast issues. Businesses should work with web developers and accessibility experts to fix any non-compliant elements and ensure their site meets WCAG 2.1 Level AA guidelines. Since the law places liability on developers, businesses should only work with professionals who understand accessibility compliance.

Legal guidance is also crucial. Consulting with attorneys or compliance specialists can help businesses understand their legal obligations and minimize risks. Training internal teams—including developers, content creators, and marketing staff—on accessibility best practices will help prevent future compliance issues.

Since accessibility requirements can change over time, businesses must set up ongoing testing and monitoring to keep their websites compliant. Regular updates and accessibility reviews will help companies avoid legal trouble and ensure all users can access their digital content.

What’s Next? Future Regulatory Considerations

AB 1757 may set a precedent for other states, leading to similar laws nationwide. Businesses operating across multiple states should prepare for stricter compliance standards.

There may also be legal challenges or amendments to AB 1757, which could modify enforcement rules or delay certain provisions. Companies should stay updated on any changes to avoid unnecessary compliance costs.

To stay ahead, businesses should monitor regulatory trends, invest in compliance strategies early, and work with legal experts. A proactive approach will help companies avoid disruptions and stay competitive in a more regulated business environment.

Conclusion: Why Businesses Must Act Now

AB 1757 introduces major challenges for businesses, developers, and website providers. While its intent is to increase accessibility and accountability, the unclear standards and legal risks could lead to higher costs, fewer web development options, and potential website shutdowns for small businesses.

Businesses that prepare early for compliance can avoid penalties, disruptions, and reputational damage. Staying informed about future amendments and legal challenges will be essential for long-term success. Developers and business owners must work together to create compliance strategies that balance accessibility, affordability, and sustainability in California’s increasingly complex regulatory landscape.