U.S. Attorney Jason M. Frierson | U.S. Department of Justice
The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada has reached an agreement with the Washoe County Board of Commissioners to address a compliance review that found several physical barriers at polling sites. This agreement concludes an investigation into Washoe County's adherence to Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act, which prohibits discrimination based on disability by state or local governments in their programs or services. The agreement will remain effective through the 2026 and 2028 election cycles.
“We must continue to protect the rights of all Nevadans to participate in one of the most fundamental rights we possess, voting rights,” stated Sue Fahami, First Assistant United States Attorney, District of Nevada. “That is why we are proud to protect the rights of voters with disabilities to cast their ballot in person, privately, independently and without barriers. We are grateful for Washoe County’s commitment to helping accomplish this mutual goal.”
During Nevada’s primary election on June 11, 2024, surveys were conducted at ten polling locations in Washoe County. These surveys identified numerous architectural and equipment barriers both outside and inside voting facilities, making them inaccessible. Issues included obstructions at accessible voting stations, unreachable voting machine controls, missing accessibility signage at parking spaces, surface openings from public sidewalks to accessible entrances, gaps and level changes.
Under the terms of the agreement, Washoe County will train poll workers on their obligations under the Americans with Disabilities Act and how to implement temporary measures if needed. The county will also use technical assistance from an accessibility expert and evaluate each current and prospective polling place based on ADA architectural standards. Additionally, Washoe County will assess polling locations for accessibility throughout the duration of the agreement and ensure new polling sites are ADA accessible when selected.
The United States Attorney’s Office will oversee the agreement's implementation and provide technical support as necessary.
This investigation is part of the Department of Justice’s ADA Voting Initiative aimed at safeguarding voting rights for individuals with disabilities nationwide. A key aspect of this initiative is collaborating with jurisdictions to enhance accessibility at polling places.
Assistant United States Attorney Ednin D. Martinez is handling this case.
Individuals who believe they have faced discrimination based on disability can report it at www.civilrights.justice.gov. For more information about the ADA, contact the department’s toll-free ADA Information Line at 1-800-514-0301 (TTY 1-833-610-1264) or visit www.ada.gov.
