Evergreen Reporter

The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada has reached an agreement with the Clark County Election Department to address accessibility issues at polling sites. This agreement follows a compliance review that identified several physical barriers, ensuring Clark County's adherence to Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The ADA prohibits discrimination based on disability by state or local governments in their programs or services. The agreement will be effective through the 2026 and 2028 election cycles.

"Voting is a fundamental right and the ADA guarantees that every person with a disability has an equal opportunity to exercise that right and cast their ballot in person and independently," stated Sue Fahami, First Assistant United States Attorney, District of Nevada. "We commend Clark County for its willingness to work collaboratively with the United States Attorney’s Office to achieve this goal."

On June 11, 2024, during Nevada’s primary election, a compliance review was conducted at eight polling sites in Clark County. The review revealed various physical barriers such as missing van accessible parking and signage, steep ramps, abrupt level changes at walkways, and entrance doors. Before the 2024 General Election, Clark County made temporary adjustments to address these concerns.

Under the new agreement, Clark County will seek technical assistance from an accessibility expert and use an evaluation form based on ADA architectural standards for each current and prospective polling place. The county will also survey polling locations for accessibility throughout the term of the agreement. When selecting future polling sites, it will ensure new locations are ADA accessible. Additionally, poll workers will receive training on ADA obligations.

This investigation is part of the Department of Justice’s ADA Voting Initiative aimed at protecting voting rights for individuals with disabilities nationwide. A key aspect of this initiative is collaboration with jurisdictions to enhance accessibility at polling places.

Assistant United States Attorney Ednin D. Martinez is handling this case.

For more information on the ADA or if you believe you have been discriminated against based on disability, contact the department’s toll-free ADA Information Line at 1-800-514-0301 (TTY 1-833-610-1264) or visit www.ada.gov.