U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger | U.S. Department of Justice
The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey has reached agreements with the Hudson and Morris County Boards of Election to ensure accessible polling places for voters with disabilities. This development was announced by U.S. Attorney Philip Sellinger.
The agreement addresses the findings of investigations into both counties' compliance with Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which prohibits disability-based discrimination by state or local governments in their programs or services.
The investigation identified architectural barriers at multiple polling locations, making them not fully accessible to voters with disabilities. Both counties’ Boards of Elections have worked cooperatively with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to resolve these issues and enhance physical accessibility at polling sites.
“Ensuring that all eligible citizens can participate in the voting process is one of the most fundamental elements of our democracy," said U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger. "Voters with disabilities have a right to vote at their local polling places free from barriers to physical accessibility. Our office remains committed to using every tool available to ensure that all eligible New Jersey voters can cast their ballot without barriers.”
Under the settlement, temporary measures such as portable ramps and signage will be used where needed to make existing polling places accessible. Poll workers will receive training on ADA accessibility requirements, including how to implement temporary measures and survey polling locations for accessibility on Election Day. The U.S. Attorney’s Office will monitor compliance and provide technical assistance.
Senior Civil Rights Counsel Kelly Horan Florio and Assistant U.S. Attorney Thandiwe Boylan represent the United States in this matter.
Individuals who believe they may have experienced discrimination can file a complaint with the U.S Attorney’s Office via their website or call their Civil Rights Complaint Hotline at (855) 281-3339. More information about the ADA is available at www.ada.gov or through the Department of Justice's toll-free information line at (800) 514-0301 and (800) 514-0383 (TDD).
