With the 2016 Presidential election just months away, now is a good time to make sure your voting location will allow for ADA accessibility. Title II of the American with Disabilities Act requires state and local governments to ensure that people with disabilities have full access and equal opportunity to vote.
While many public sites are ADA accessible, a report by the Government Accountability Office found that a staggering 73% of polling places were not ADA compliant during the 2008 election.
Here are just a few of the logistics that need consideration before election day:
Parking
There are three elements to an accessible parking space:
- Signage designating it as accessible
- The space itself
- An aisle next to the space that is wide enough for voters with a disability to get in and out of their vehicle
Building Entrance
Polling sites must have at least one accessible building entrance. Door hardware is operable with one hand. The required entryway clearance width is 32 inches for wheelchair passage. If an accessible entrance isn’t available, a temporary ramp for election day is an option.
Use a Checklist
Parking and building entrances are only two of the considerations needed when choosing community voting places. It is important to use a checklist to ensure all requirements are in place before election day.
Voting is a civic right for every citizen. Being able to access the polling site means that people with disabilities can talk with candidates and neighbors. Because a mix of public and private sites are often used for election day, it is important to start early in seeking assurance a site is ADA accessible.
If you feel a polling site may bar you from casting your vote due to accessibility, contact us.