Why Equal Access to Voting Matters

by Harper Chance | Sep 15, 2026 | News, Voting

by Nathanael Batson, DRM Intern, Spring 2026

Voting is a fundamental right that is granted to all eligible individuals. Not only does it ensure the proper transfer of power, but it also helps us engage with our community. During Disability Voting Rights Week, we want to remind everyone about the power of the disability vote and your rights this election season.

Federal and state laws require that state and local governments provide voting in an equal and accessible manner to people with disabilities. Yet, many polling places have major barriers to voting. This can range from polling locations with inaccessible wheelchair entries to voting facilities that lack electronic voting machines or Braille ballots for people who are blind. As shown in a 2022 report from the Election Assistance Commission, approximately 20% of people with disabilities who voted in 2022 either needed assistance or faced barriers at the polls. During every election, Disability Rights Maine works closely with the Secretary of State’s office to resolve and remove access barriers for disabled Mainers. You can learn more about our recent work in our 2024 Election Report.

Being denied the right to vote independently and privately is frustrating. When I voted for the first time in 2018, I went to my polling place prepared to use the Accessible Voting System (AVS). Upon arrival, however, no one knew how to use the machine or whether it was working. Instead of lashing out or getting angry, I accepted assistance from the deputy warden to fill out my ballot. After returning home, I contacted the town clerk to describe my experience. I knew my rights under the ADA, the Help America Vote Act (HAVA), and the Maine State Constitution, and explained the need for change and the importance of ensuring accessible voting during elections. My calm composure led my town and the surrounding areas to receive training on accessible elections. As a result of this training, my town has ensured that the AVS is working and available for voters to use.

Effective advocacy led to change again in 2020, when Maine moved to mail-in voting because of COVID-19. Initially, Maine only provided paper ballots, which were not accessible to people who are blind or have a visual or print disability. Disability Rights Maine sued and in response, Maine developed an accessible, online absentee ballot. This allows someone who may not be able to cast an absentee vote privately and without assistance from another person, as is their right.

Using the electronic absentee ballot is easy and secure. Here’s a simple list to help guide you through the process:

• The voter who is disabled requests an accessible absentee ballot;
• The voter affirms their disability by checking a box;
• The voter enters their name, home address, and email address;
• Within a few days, the voter will receive an email containing a unique username and password to access a web form to fill out their ballot;
• Once completed, the voter downloads the ballot to their computer and emails it to the address specified to them.

Remember, your right to vote is protected! If you encounter barriers to the polls or need help with a disability-related voting question, please contact Disability Rights Maine (DRM). We’re here to help.