WASHINGTON, D.C.—The National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) will recognize the New Mexico Legislature’s Legislative Council Service for adding a robust set of accessibility features to its website, www.nmlegis.gov, at the 2024 Legislative Summit in Louisville, Ky.
The website was selected for the NCSL Online Democracy Award for its emphasis on ease of use and ADA accessibility. The Online Democracy Award Committee praised the website for “focusing on ADA accessibility by providing a tool that modifies the pages to the users’ needs,” enhancing participation in the legislative process for individuals with visual impairments or learning difficulties.
The website's new features include on-demand accessibility tools such as a screen reader, language translator, and dictionary, made available through ReciteMe, an accessibility software and solutions provider.
NCSL's Online Democracy Award is presented annually to a legislature, legislative chamber or caucus whose website makes democracy user friendly. The Online Democracy Award is sponsored by two of NCSL legislative staff associations: the National Association of Legislative Information Technology and the Legislative Information and Communications Staff.
Previous winners of the NCSL Online Democracy Award include the Louisiana Legislature (2023), Washington Legislature (2022), Georgia General Assembly (2021), Minnesota Legislature (2020), North Carolina General Assembly (2019), Massachusetts General Court (2018), Alaska Legislature (2017), New York Senate (2016), Tennessee General Assembly (2015), Utah Legislature (2014), Massachusetts General Court (2013), Hawaii Legislature (2012), Florida Senate (2011), Washington Legislature (2010), Tennessee General Assembly (2009), Texas Legislature (2008), New Jersey Legislature (2007), Minnesota Legislature (2006) and the Utah Legislature (2005).
For more information on the NCSL Online Democracy Award, visit LINCS/NALIT Online Democracy Award.
NCSL is a bipartisan organization that serves the legislators and staffs of the states, commonwealths and territories. It provides research, technical assistance and opportunities for policymakers to exchange ideas on the most pressing state issues and is an effective and respected advocate for the interests of the states in the American federal system.