NY A10946

Replace existing waiver procedures for polling place accessibility with a requirement that all polling places be accessible to citizens with disabilities and comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility Guidelines (ADAAG).

Direct the State Board of Elections to publish and distribute a concise guide describing accessibility standards for polling sites, including an access survey instrument, developed in consultation with disability advocates and experts.

Require county boards of elections to conduct access surveys for every polling site to verify compliance with accessibility standards, with completed surveys submitted to the State Board of Elections and maintained as public records.

Mandate that polling sites designated before this law's effective date be evaluated within two years, and any non-compliant sites must be modified or relocated to an accessible location within six months.

Authorize the State Board of Elections to promulgate rules and regulations necessary to implement these accessibility requirements, effective December 15 following enactment.