Canada-AMA

What is The Accessibility for Manitobans Act (AMA)?

The Accessibility for Manitobans Act (AMA), passed in December 2013, is a provincial law aimed at proactively identifying and removing barriers that prevent individuals with disabilities from fully participating in society.

After presenting Ontario's AODA, Manitoba's AMA establishes enforceable accessibility standards in customer service, employment, communications, transportation, and built environments, demonstrating the province's commitment to removing barriers for persons with disabilities.

In Manitoba, Accessibility embodies the fundamental right of every individual to equal opportunity and participation in society.

As stated by Rochelle Squires, Manitoba’s Minister responsible for Accessibility-

"The Accessibility for Manitobans Act is essential in creating inclusive communities where everyone can thrive. Our goal is simple, making Manitoba barrier-free for all."

Who Does the AMA Apply To?

The Accessibility for Manitobans Act (AMA) has broad applicability, extending to virtually all sectors operating within the province, including both public and private entities from 1st May 2025.

Its scope encompasses government agencies, municipalities, educational institutions, healthcare providers, businesses, and non-profit organizations.

Specifically, the legislation applies to any organization that employs one or more individuals, offers goods or services, manages facilities, or oversees public spaces, ensuring comprehensive compliance with its accessibility standards.

In the landmark case of Manitoba Human Rights Commission v. Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries Corporation 2018, a visually impaired individual challenged the accessibility barriers at Manitoba Liquor Marts.

The complainant highlighted the absence of accessible information and assistive devices, hindering independence in shopping.

The Manitoba Human Rights Adjudicator ruled in favor of the complainant, mandating significant accessibility improvements and reinforcing the AMA's standards.

Comparison of AMA, ACA, and AODA

The Accessibility for Manitobans Act (AMA) represents Manitoba's provincial commitment to accessibility, mandating the removal of barriers across key areas including customer service, employment, and the built environment.

As a regional framework, it applies broadly to both public and private sector organisations operating within the province, establishing enforceable standards tailored to local needs.

While sharing core principles with other Canadian accessibility laws, the AMA's jurisdiction remains confined to Manitoba, requiring organisations to meet specific provincial compliance requirements.

At the federal level, the Accessible Canada Act (ACA) provides a nationwide approach to accessibility, governing sectors under federal jurisdiction such as banking, telecommunications, and interprovincial transportation.

The ACA establishes national accessibility standards for federal sectors, complementing provincial laws like Manitoba's AMA that govern regional accessibility, together working toward a barrier-free Canada by 2040.

Ontario's Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) serves as one of Canada's most comprehensive and established accessibility laws, often influencing other provincial legislation including Manitoba's AMA.

The AODA implements rigorous, phased accessibility standards across both public and private sectors, with robust enforcement mechanisms developed through years of implementation.

While similar in intent to the AMA, the AODA's more mature regulatory framework and Ontario-specific requirements demonstrate how accessibility laws evolve differently across provinces while maintaining shared objectives of inclusion and barrier removal.

WCAG Standards for AMA

The Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 AA provide a globally recognised framework for digital accessibility, ensuring web content is perceivable, operable, understandable, and robust for users with disabilities.

Under Manitoba’s Accessibility for Manitobans Act (AMA), organisations must align their digital platforms with these standards, covering elements like text alternatives, keyboard navigation, readable fonts, and adaptable layouts.

By adopting WCAG 2.1 AA, businesses meet AMA requirements while improving customer experience and mitigating legal risks. Accessible design benefits everyone, from screen reader users to those with cognitive or motor impairments.

Breaking Barriers in Manitoba

The Accessibility for Manitobans Act (AMA) delivers significant societal and organisational benefits by promoting inclusivity, enabling full community participation for people of all abilities.

Businesses complying with AMA standards gain access to a broader market, including the substantial consumer base of individuals with disabilities, while promoting innovation through accessible design solutions. Compliance also mitigates legal risks, protecting organisations from costly penalties and reputational damage.

The AMA applies to individuals with a wide range of disabilities physical, cognitive, sensory, mental health, and intellectual acknowledging both temporary and permanent conditions.

By recognising that accessibility barriers vary, the Act ensures adaptable measures are implemented across sectors, creating equitable access for all Manitobans.

Its comprehensive approach underscores Manitoba’s commitment to removing systemic barriers and fostering an inclusive society.

Organisational Obligations Under the AMA

The Accessibility for Manitobans Act (AMA) mandates that all covered organisations proactively identify, prevent, and eliminate accessibility barriers. Entities with 1 or more employees from 1st May 2025 must develop and publish detailed accessibility plans outlining their barrier removal strategies.

Organisations must train staff on accessibility standards, provide accessible communications, and ensure barrier-free physical spaces to meet AMA compliance requirements for diverse needs.

These measures collectively ensure equitable participation and align with Manitoba's commitment to full accessibility. Compliance not only fulfills legal duties but also demonstrates organisational dedication to digital inclusion.

Ensure Compliance with AMA

Organisations must proactively implement measures to meet AMA requirements. This begins with a thorough understanding of all applicable accessibility standards across key areas.

Eliminate barriers by conducting accessibility audits with direct input from users with disabilities, while training staff on inclusive practices to fulfil obligations and enhance accessibility.

Maintain accessibility documentation and continuously improve measures to ensure compliance and inclusion.

How Nexus Inclusion Supports AMA Goals?

Nexus Inclusion helps businesses achieve AMA compliance through digital accessibility solutions, audits, training, and design.

Let's create digitally inclusive services together by removing barriers and expanding customer reach for an organisation.