Voting is a constitutional right for all adult United States citizens, but for people with disabilities, the process can be extremely frustrating and even impossible. Historically, people with disabilities have not exercised their right to vote at the same rate as those without disabilities due to the multitude of barriers that exist. Some barriers are physical such as inaccessible polling entrances and voting booths. Others are programmatic, i.e. limited training for election inspectors and absentee ballots that are not compatible with assistive technology.
If you are a person with a disability, the Americans with Disabilities Act provides you with equal voting rights whether you choose to vote in person or at home. That means you should be able to ask for help, use accessible tools, and get the same chance to vote as anyone else. For the 2020 election, Michigan has ramped up its accessible voting options. Individuals wishing to vote in person should call their township clerk in advance to confirm their designated site is accessible. In the event that it is not, the clerk will direct them to one in their area that is. Calling ahead can save time and stress, especially if you use a wheelchair, cane, walker, service animal, or another mobility aid, or if you need a quieter place or extra help getting around. If you are unsure who your township clerk is, your local clerk’s office can help you find out.
Overall, voters with disabilities should find the majority of polling places to:
- Be barrier-free, i.e. entrances, lighting, and seating
- Utilize election inspectors that are aware of the requirement to provide accommodations
- Allow another person to assist the voter when casting their ballot, this includes requesting help from election inspectors
- Have a Voter Assist Terminal available; this device marks the ballot for the voter
It can help to think through what “barrier-free” means before you go. A good polling place should have a clear path from the parking area to the door. The entrance should be easy to use. The lighting should let you see where you are going. Seating can matter too, especially if you need to rest while waiting. If you are worried about getting inside, ask the clerk where the accessible entrance is and whether there is a ramp, automatic door, or another route that is easier to use.
Election inspectors should also understand that accommodations are not special favors. They are part of fair voting. If you need more time to mark your ballot, need instructions repeated, or need help reaching a voting machine, you can ask. If one person does not understand, ask for the clerk or another inspector. You do not have to guess or struggle alone. It is okay to speak up and say what you need.
Allowing another person to assist the voter when casting their ballot is another important part of access. This includes requesting help from election inspectors. If you trust a friend, family member, caregiver, or helper to assist you, you may be able to use that support. If not, election staff can help. A simple way to prepare is to tell your helper ahead of time what parts you want help with and what parts you want to do yourself. For example, you may want someone to read the names on the ballot, but you may want to make the final choice on your own.
The Voter Assist Terminal is another tool that can make voting easier. This device marks the ballot for the voter. If you have limited hand strength, low vision, or another disability that makes it hard to fill in a paper ballot, this device may help you vote more independently. When you arrive, ask where the Voter Assist Terminal is and how to use it. If the election inspector does not offer it right away, ask for it. Sometimes the simplest step is just saying, “I need the accessible voting device.”
Those who prefer or need to vote at home can request an absentee ballot that allows them to use an electronic device and assistive technology of their choosing. This can be a good option if you have trouble getting to the polls, if travel is hard, or if you do better using your own computer tools at home. Using your own device may make it easier to enlarge the text, use a screen reader, switch devices, or take your time in a familiar place. Individuals must apply online for an Electronic Ballot.
If you use assistive technology, it is a good idea to check it before election day. Make sure your screen reader, keyboard, switch, or other tool works with the ballot system you plan to use. If something does not work, you may need extra time to fix it or choose another way to vote. It can also help to have a trusted person nearby in case you need help with the computer or printer, while still keeping your vote private.
Here are a few simple steps that may help make voting day go more smoothly:
- Call your township clerk before you go and ask if the polling site is accessible.
- Ask where the accessible entrance and parking are located.
- Bring any item you need for comfort or communication, such as glasses, hearing aids, a pen, or notes.
- Tell election staff what kind of help you need as soon as you arrive.
- Ask for extra time if you need it.
- Use the Voter Assist Terminal if it works best for you.
- If voting at home, apply for the Electronic Ballot and plan ahead for your assistive technology.
It can also help to remember that you do not need to explain your disability in detail to vote. You can simply say what accommodation you need. For example, you might say, “I need assistance reading the ballot,” or “I need to use the accessible voting machine.” Clear, direct words can make the process faster and easier. If you have had a bad experience in the past, that does not mean this time will be the same. It is still worth trying again and asking for the access you are entitled to receive.
Click Voters with Disabilities if you need further detail or would like to learn more about what Michigan is doing to encourage people with disabilities to get out and vote.
If you want help thinking through your voting options, Disability Network Lakeshore may be able to help. Our services are free, and we work with people with disabilities in Ottawa and Allegan counties. You can call us at (616) 396-5326. We are located at 442 Century Lane, Holland, MI 49423.