Cahill Poll Site Access Bill Passes Assembly

Legislation requires all polling places in New York comply with the with the Americans with Disabilities Act

May 21, 2009

The Assembly once again passed legislation (A.584-A) authored by Assemblymember Kevin Cahill (D-Ulster, Dutchess), ensuring poll site access. The bill requires that every voting location in New York be in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.

“It has been nearly two decades since the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act, yet some polling sites in New York are still inaccessible to citizens with disabilities,” said Mr. Cahill. “Implementing the Help America Vote Act was intended to protect the voting rights of all citizens. It is not only a legal obligation, but also our moral imperative to ensure access for every voter.”

The legislation creates a clear standard that all polling locations must be accessible to citizens with disabilities in accordance with the guidelines established through the Federal Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990. The bill repeals an outdated waiver process that allows for the continued usage of sites that are not ADA compliant.

“Particularly during this time of heightened overseas conflict, it is unacceptable that some of our wounded returning veterans might not have access to their polling sites,” said Assemblymember Cahill. “I am proud to partner with the Catskill Center for Independence to make certain that every citizen, regardless of their physical stature, has the same ability and right to vote.”

“HAVA presented us with a once in a lifetime, federally funded opportunity to make the electoral process inclusive for all voters, including those living with disabilities,” said Chris Zachmeyer, Executive Director, Catskill Center for Independence and Chair of the New York State Independent Living Council (NYSILC). “Spending millions of dollars to ensure the voting machines are accessible to citizens with disabilities does little good if the polling places themselves are inaccessible. This bill will help New York State move forward in making its electoral process accessible to all of its citizens. I am hopeful that the Senate will finally act on this legislation this year."

The bill has unanimously passed the Assembly for seven consecutive sessions. S.1058-A is expected to be taken up by the senate this year.

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