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Vote for Accessibility: Removing Physical Barriers at Polling Places

Blog 31, October 2024

Election Day in the U.S. happens Nov. 5, and polling places will consist of the usual patchwork of government buildings, churches, schools, and local rec centers. Depending on the precinct in which you live, you will likely have a very different voting experience. According to a study by Rutgers University, an estimated 38 million Americans with disabilities were eligible to vote in the November 2020 election. Despite these disparate locations, it is vital that all polling places are absent physical barriers that can prevent people with disabilities and others from casting their ballots.

Accessibility is fundamental to upholding the principle of equal participation in democracy. Every eligible voter, regardless of their physical abilities, should have the right to cast their vote in a manner that is as independent and private as possible. Inaccessible polling places can lead to voter disenfranchisement, where individuals with disabilities are unable to vote. This undermines the democratic process and denies people their fundamental rights.

A National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) publication says common barriers afflicting polling places include doorways too narrow for wheelchairs and doors that are too heavy for individuals with disabilities. Automatic doors are a practical solution to these problems.

Unfortunately, some local boards of elections simply close polling places rather than correcting access issues. It’s doubly tragic, because making these adjustments is often simpler and more affordable than many assume.

Accessible polling places are vital for many reasons. They contribute to a more inclusive society. By ensuring that everyone can participate in elections, we promote a culture of respect and equality. Accessibility improvements can also make polling places safer and more comfortable for all voters. Features like automatic doors, clear signage, and accessible voting machines contribute to a positive voting experience.

Accessible polling places encourage individuals with disabilities to engage in the electoral process and advocate for issues that affect them, fostering a more active and engaged citizenry. When polling places are accessible, more voters with disabilities are likely to participate in elections. This increases overall voter turnout and ensures that a wider range of voices and perspectives are represented.

Making polling places accessible demonstrates a commitment to equality. It shows that a community values all its members and is willing to take steps to ensure everyone can participate fully in civic life. Moreover, it helps ensure that the democratic process is fair and inclusive, reflecting the diverse needs of the entire electorate.

In 2021, the Government Accountability Office examined what actions state and local governments undertook to address accessibility. While progress is being made, we urge all local election boards to assess and address access barriers at their polling places to ensure every voter can exercise their right to vote without hindrance.

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