On October 7th, most local elections officials launched online sample ballots or voters’ pamphlets to their voters. These crucial voter information documents inform voters of their ballot choices and provide information on polling locations and voting procedures. Frequently, this information is only posted in inaccessible PDF formats, which means that it is often only accessible to voters without physical, visual or cognitive challenges. This is by definition unequal access to government-funded information and probably in violation of state and federal accessibility laws.
We are requesting that each CIL contact their local election official to ask whether they offer an accessible sample ballot or voter’s pamphlet. We have heard that in the past accessible voter information has not been a priority in part because voters with disabilities have not requested this information. By asking this question, we can educate election officials on the necessity and legal requirement of accessible voter information so that it can be fixed for current or future elections.
Given the election is less than two weeks away, we encourage each of you to ask your elections official if they currently provide this information, or have plans to do so in the future. Your advocacy can help put this issue on the table and ensure that election officials are informed about the importance and legal requirement of accessible election information.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Sarah Blahovec, Disability Vote Organizer, at 724-309-5182 or [email protected].
