Cahill: Poll Site Access Bill Signed Into Law

All polling places in New York must comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act

November 3, 2010

Albany – Governor Paterson signed legislation (A.10946), sponsored by Assemblymember Kevin Cahill (D-Ulster, Dutchess), that will require every voting location in New York State to be in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA). This bill moves New York forward in making its electoral process fair and accessible to all of its citizens.

“It has been two decades since the passage of the Americans with Disabilities Act, yet some polling sites in New York still lack basic accommodations to ensure access to all citizens,” Assemblymember Cahill said. “This law is an important step forward for the voting rights of people living with disabilities. It is not only a legal obligation, but also our moral imperative to ensure access for every voter.”

By mandating that all polling sites comply with ADA accessibility guidelines on days when elections are being held, this law will help ensure that people with disabilities can be accommodated in a fair and equitable fashion at polling sites. The new law repeals an outdated waiver process that allowed for the continued usage of sites that are not ADA compliant. Funding from the Help America Vote Act was intended to protect the voting rights of all citizens, including those addressed by the ADA.

“The disabilities community has always appreciated the leadership of Assemblyman Cahill during his years as Chair of the Task Force for People with Disabilities and beyond. We are forever grateful,” said Brad Williams, Executive Director of the New York State Independent Living Council.

Many polling sites are ill-equipped to provide basic access to people with disabilities. Often times, such barriers as steep steps and narrow doorways impede the only available routes to these buildings. Entrances that are more accommodating to those with disabilities are frequently obscured from view, due to a lack of proper signage. Moreover, many polling sites are located in basements, which can only be accessed via stairwells. A lack of adequate handicapped parking spaces has been a deterrent as well.

“Particularly during this time of conflict overseas, it is unacceptable that some of our wounded returning veterans might not have access to their polling sites,” said Assemblymember Cahill. “It is our duty to protect the voting rights of all people who legally have the right to vote, regardless of their physical condition, and that is what this law will do.”

What's New