I have a disability or special needs-may I vote? The Help America Vote Act passed by Congress in 2002 which created new national standards for how citizens register and vote and included Federal funds to help states and localities to improve election procedures. All qualified citizens desiring to vote must be given an opportunity to do so. The state must be committed to providing accessible polling places, accessible voting machines, voting by absentee ballot and provide Election Officers to assist upon the voter's arrival. Voters with special needs may bring someone with them to help in the voting process. Accommodations for voters who are deaf or blind must be provided. In addition, only a court judgment of mental incompetence can remove the right to vote not a diagnosis of known mental illness or developmental delay.

By Janet Kramer, MD, ADDA Board