Disability Voting Rights & Responsibilities

“THE STAKES ARE TOO HIGH FOR GOVERNMENT TO BE A SPECTATOR SPORT.”
–BARBARA JORDAN

Voters with disabilities deserve to understand their rights before they head to the polls. Voting access is increasingly important for all, so Paraquad shares resources and information about disability voting rights.

As a voter, you have the right to:

  • A private ballot

  • A provisional ballot

  • Accessible voting

    • Curbside voting

    • Vote at home & permanent absentee voting

    • Accessible voting machines

    • Assistance from the person of your choice (someone with you or a poll worker)

  • Cast a ballot if you are in line when the polls close

  • Written voting instructions

  • Verify your touch screen printout

  • File a grievance with the Secretary of State if your rights have been violated

Why is voting so important?

  • The disability community includes more than 42.5 million Americans, making it the largest minority group in the United States. Each vote from someone with a disability brings accessibility and equity to the forefront of the political process.

  • People with disabilities have navigated systems in the U.S. such as health care, social services and employment — disability voting rights allow each person to use their experiences to inform their votes.

  • The disability community regularly votes at a much lower rate than other populations — voters with disabilities set an example for others in their community to head to the polls.

  • Your vote COUNTS! Check out this list of just a few elections decided by just one, or a handful of ballots!

Missouri Identification Requirements for Voting Access:

  • Government identification (driver’s license, non-driver’s identification, military identification, etc)

  • Non-government photo identification (college identification)

  • Utility bill or bank statement

If you do not have an ID but you are registered, you may ask for a provisional ballot.  If you return with a government-issued photo ID or if the signature matches the one on your registration card, your ballot will be counted.

Visit the Missouri Secretary of State’s website to find out if you are registered to vote, register, or find the location of your polling place.

For more information contact:

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