Voting Access

HAVA - the Help America Vote Act - includes provisions specifically intended to break down the barriers that have faced voters with disabilities, i.e. difficulties in registering to vote and challenges accessing polling places and voting machines. Between this new law, the access to public buildings promised by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and advances in technology that make a confidential ballot possible, Americans with disabilities should finally be able to achieve access to the voting process.

The following is information on polling site accessibility:

• Physical Location:  Every polling site should provide accessible parking that is within 200 feet of the entrance to the polling site. Parking spaces should be a minimum of 8 feet wide with an 8 foot access isle between them or individual spaces should be 12 feet wide. The access pathway from the parking area to the front entrance must be clear and provide a smooth surface for wheelchairs, walkers, canes, and other devices used to assist persons with disabilities. The entrance to the polling site must be grade level or provide a ramp. While electronic doors are preferred, the doors must be relatively easy to open for someone with limited mobility.
  
  
• Access to the Voting Machine:  Every voting machine must provide enough space to accommodate an individual who uses a wheelchair, scooter, walker, cane, or other device used by a person with a disability. Any voter having a disability and requiring assistance may bring a voting attendant in the booth with them or may request assistance when voting. This applies to all individuals whose disability impedes their ability to vote unassisted, including persons having visual, cognitive, physical, or mental disabilities.
  
  
• Understanding the Ballot:  Every voter has a right to understand their choices and be able to make selections that are in their best interest and according to their own wishes. In this context, every individual has the right to ask questions for clarification of the full face ballot. No voter should ever feel rushed when voting. Moreover, every voter has the right to examine the full face ballot and ask questions that facilitate comprehension prior to entering the voting booth. And, every voter has the right to complete confidentiality in the voting process.

The right to vote should be enjoyed equally by all of our Nation’s citizens...including persons with physical, mental, cognitive, or sensory impairments that may effect one or more major life functions.

If you have any questions regarding polling site accessibility, contact WILC’s Systems Advocate Lisa Tarricone at 914-682-3926 (Voice), ext. 112 or 914-682-0926 (TTY).