By Shelley Roossien, Accessibility & Inclusion Specialist
Election season is upon us, and voting is more important than ever. However, many people may not know the options available to vote when a disability or language barrier prevents them using a standard ballot.
Key items to know:
- People with print disabilities can apply for an accessible electronic absentee ballot for just this year or on a permanent basis.
- All polling places are equipped with an accessible voting terminal, and you may ask for instruction or assistance for its use at any time.
- If you are blind, disabled or ballots are not available in your language, you may bring someone to assist you.
- Polling locations themselves must be accessible (i.e. have wheelchair ramps). You should contact the clerk ahead of election day to ensure your assigned location meets your needs. If not, you can request either an alternate polling site that is accessible or curbside voting.
The Bureau of Elections' Ombudsperson for Accessible Elections is available to assist with any questions or concerns for people with disabilities that wish to vote. Contact them by calling 517-335-2730 or emailing MDOS-ADAVoting@michigan.gov.
To learn more about accessible voting, visit Michigan Voter Information.
To learn more about voting rights for voters with disabilities, visit The Rights of Voters with Disabilities.
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