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Polling Place Information
Federal Standards for Polling Places: The federal government mandates that polling places be accessible to voters with disabilities and provides funds to help states comply with these standards.
The Voting Rights Act of 1965 and its amendments prohibit discrimination in the establishment and operation of polling places, ensuring equal access for historically disenfranchised voters and individuals with disabilities.
Under the Help America Vote Act (HAVA), states receive funding to make polling places accessible, including providing physical access for people with disabilities and training for election officials and poll workers. These measures are designed to ensure all eligible voters can participate in the electoral process without facing barriers at polling locations.
Impact of Shelby v. Holder: The 2013 Supreme Court decision in Shelby County v. Holder significantly impacted the availability and accessibility of polling places. By eliminating the preclearance requirement under Section 5 of the Voting Rights Act, states and localities with histories of discrimination no longer needed federal approval before changing voting laws or closing polling places.
This has led to the closure and relocation of numerous polling sites, disproportionately affecting communities of color and low-income communities in Georgia and other states. The reduction in polling places has resulted in longer wait times, increased travel distances, and reduced access to voting for many voters, particularly in metro areas and Black and brown neighborhoods.
Legal and Funding Context:
Federal laws and court rulings have shaped how polling places are established and operated. For example, the Voting Rights Act prohibits discriminatory practices in the placement of polling sites, and court decisions have addressed issues of voter disenfranchisement due to limited or inaccessible polling locations. Additionally, HAVA funding supports improvements in polling place accessibility and election administration, including upgrades to ensure compliance with disability access requirements and training for poll workers.
Implications for Voter Access:
- Reduced Polling Places: The closure of polling sites, especially in areas with high minority populations, can create barriers to voting, such as longer wait times and travel distances. Voters in affected areas should verify their polling location well before Election Day and plan accordingly to avoid delays.
- Accessibility Challenges: Voters with disabilities may face obstacles if polling places are not fully compliant with accessibility standards. Those who require accommodations should confirm their polling site’s accessibility in advance or consider using absentee or early voting options if available.
- Proactive Measures for Voters: To ensure their ballot access, voters should:
- Regularly check their voter registration status and polling place information, especially close to an election.
- Take advantage of early voting or absentee voting options to avoid potential issues on Election Day.
- Contact local election officials if they encounter any difficulties with accessibility or location changes and report any barriers to voting rights organizations for assistance.
