On June 28, 2025, the Accessibility Strengthening Act (BSFG) will come into effect, requiring companies to make their products and services accessible. Although the BSFG was already passed in 2021, a crucial update became known in March 2025 – especially relevant for companies with digital customer interaction: To ensure compliance with these regulations, a new central authority has been established in Germany.
The Monitoring Authority of the Federal States for the Accessibility of Products and Services (German: Marktüberwachungsstelle der Länder für die Barrierefreiheit von Produkten und Dienstleistungen – MLBF) will begin monitoring digital accessibility starting in summer 2025.
The Responsibilities of the New Authority
The MLBF was established jointly by the 16 German federal states and is responsible for monitoring compliance with digital accessibility. This includes overseeing various products such as smartphones, smart TVs, bank and ticket machines, as well as e-book readers. Digital services like online banking and e-commerce are also subject to the regulations of the BSFG.
In our whitepaper on digital accessibility, you’ll find an overview of the new legislation, helpful links to free web tools for checking your site’s accessibility, and code examples for key frontend elements. (German only)
Why is the new authority so important? The central market surveillance body was introduced to ensure a uniform application of the BSFG. Consolidating technical and enforcement responsibilities allows for more efficient implementation and reduces administrative overhead.
What Do Companies Need to Do Now?
Companies should use the remaining time before the law comes into effect to review and adapt their digital offerings for accessibility. Digital accessibility includes, among other things:
Providing image descriptions and alt texts
Using semantic HTML structures
Ensuring sufficient color contrast
Enabling keyboard accessibility for users with impairments
Testing accessibility using free tools like the WAVE Web Accessibility Evaluator
Offering accessible forms that are compatible with screen readers
Here you’ll find a complete overview of the requirements and concrete recommendations: Step-by-Step Guide to Digital Accessibility – 11 Steps to Meet the Legal Requirements of the BSFG.
The time to act is now: The establishment of the MLBF in Germany is an important step toward a more inclusive society and the implementation of the BSFG. Companies should begin preparing for the new requirements now in order to act in compliance with the law and contribute positively to digital accessibility.
Timely implementation of these measures not only ensures compliance with legal requirements but also broadens the potential audience and improves the user experience for everyone. Our diva-e experts are happy to support you with a customized Accessibility Audit to help you optimize your digital platform – so you’re fully prepared before the BSFG comes into force.
