Judge demands better access for disabled voters
She cites case of Bay Ridge voter
Hon. Deborah Batts, federal judge for the Southern District of New York, has ordered the New York City Board of Elections to remove barriers at polling sites that hinder access to disabled voters.
The case, United Spinal Association v. Board of Elections of the City of New York, 10 Civ. 5653, was filed by two non-profit organizations, United Spinal Association and Disabled in Action.
The lawsuit alleges that the New York City Board of Elections discriminates against registered voters with mobility and vision disabilities, because it fails to ensure that polling places are accessible on Election Day. The plaintiffs in the case argue that hindrances such as inaccessible ramps, missing signage and improper placement of voting equipment prevent disabled voters from getting to voting machines to cast a vote.