Voting season is almost upon us! Voting is a fundamental right, and it’s essential that everyone has the opportunity to exercise it. If you have a disability, there are a number of accommodations and options available to help you cast your ballot.
In-Person Voting:
- Accessible Polling Places: Ensure your polling place is accessible by wheelchair and has other accommodations for individuals with disabilities.
- Assistance: If you need assistance, you can bring a helper or request assistance from a poll worker.
- Curbside Voting: If you are unable to enter the polling place, some states allow you to vote from your vehicle.
- Voting devices: If you are blind, visually impaired, or have other disabilities, a machine will help you vote.
Mail-in Voting:
- Request a Mail-in Ballot: Contact your local election office to request a mail-in ballot.
- Assistance: If you need help filling out your ballot, you can ask a trusted individual or contact your election office for assistance.
- Return Options: You can return your ballot by mail, drop it off at a designated location, or hand-deliver it to your election office.
Other Voting Options:
- Early Voting: Many states offer early voting periods. Check your state’s election calendar for specific dates and locations.
- Registering Online: Many states offer an online registration system for voting!
- Accessibility Accommodations: If you vote in person, you have the right to ask for accommodations. A full list can be found on the Americans with Disabilities (ADA) checklist on voter accessibility rights.
Additional Resources:
- Your State’s Election Website: Your state’s election website will have information about voting accommodations and deadlines.
- Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund (DREDF): DREDF provides information and resources on voting rights for individuals with disabilities.
- The National Disability Rights Network (NDRN): NDRN offers information and advocacy on disability rights issues, including voting.
- American Disabilities Act (ACA): ADA offers a comprehensive list of rights and accessibility features that polling places are required to have. Some services are listed below.
- Vote.gov/USA.gov: Gives clear and concise information about accessibility services and other voter rights. You can also learn more about registering to vote or updating your existing voter registration.