Avoiding Lawsuits and Ensuring Access: How Polling Places Can Comply with the ADA Before Election Day

Avoiding Lawsuits and Ensuring Access: How Polling Places Can Comply with the ADA Before Election Day

Every voter deserves equal access to the ballot box. But for millions of Americans with disabilities, that access can be obstructed by something as simple as a few steps or an uneven walkway. With federal enforcement increasing and lawsuits on the rise, now is the time for local election boards to prioritize accessibility at polling places.

ADA Compliance Is Not Optional

Recent Department of Justice (DOJ) actions show that accessibility compliance is under close scrutiny. In just the past year, counties in Georgia, Texas, New Jersey, and California have entered settlement agreements to address physical barriers at polling sites. These agreements often follow voter complaints or proactive DOJ audits—and they come with tight deadlines, steep costs, and reputational risk.

Accessibility Lawsuits Are Becoming a Catalyst for Change

In New York City (NYC), a lawsuit prompted the Board of Elections to take corrective action, resulting in a major accessibility contract. Similar scenarios played out in Harris County, TX, and Cobb County, GA. The pattern is clear: legal action is spurring municipalities to act, often under pressure.

But what if accessibility improvements came before the lawsuit?

Be Proactive, Not Reactive

At EZ-ACCESS®, we’re proud to support the New York City Board of Elections with customized accessibility solutions to help them meet ADA standards across dozens of polling locations. With our proven model and ready-to-deploy access systems, we’re helping other municipalities take a proactive approach, reduce legal risk, and better serve voters with mobility challenges.

Whether you're using traditional precincts or transitioning to vote centers (as allowed in many states like Texas, Tennessee, Washington, and more), our modular ramp systems, threshold solutions, and expert consultations can help you meet compliance quickly and efficiently.

Solutions That Scale for Election Day

From temporary ramp setups for one-day use to permanent access installations for multi-purpose civic spaces, EZ-ACCESS offers flexible solutions tailored to your needs. We offer systems that are:

  • ADA-compliant

  • Fast to deploy

  • Durable for high traffic

  • Backed by decades of experience

The Time to Act Is Now

With the next general election on the horizon, don't wait for a lawsuit or last-minute scramble. Make your polling sites accessible now, with the support of a partner who understands both the regulatory landscape and the logistics of Election Day operations.

Need help evaluating your polling locations?
Contact us to learn how we can help you meet ADA requirements and ensure every voter has safe, dignified access.

 


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