Help America Vote Act
The Help America Vote Act (HAVA) of 2002 implemented many changes to the electoral process ensuring all voters have an opportunity to vote privately and independently.
Voters in Washington State with accessibility needs can vote by mail or visit an accessible voting center to vote on an accessible voting unit.
Disability Advisory Group
Yakima County is committed to improving access to voting for individuals with disabilities. The Disability Advisory Group provides feedback on how to best improve access. If you are interested in attending a meeting, please contact us
Outreach
The Elections Division is available to demonstrate the accessible voting unit as part of a presentation or by attending an outreach event. In the past, we have presented the unit at the ARC of Yakima County and have attended the Governor’s Committee on Disability Issues and Employment forum.
If you know of an event we can attend or would like us to demonstrate the voting unit, please contact us.
Accessible Voting Unit
The accessible voting unit is an electronic voting unit that enables individuals to vote privately and independently. Accessible voting units offer the following:
- A voter's personal "sip-and-puff" device can plug into the unit
- Audio (English/Spanish)
- Large text
- Tactile switches designed for voters who have mobility impairments
- Wheelchair accommodation
Elections staff are available to assist voters with the unit.
Accessible electronic ballot format
Washington State offers secure online ballot access and marking through VoteWA.gov, a personalized voter tool. This system allows voters who have vision and hearing impairments to mark and access their ballot on a secure website.
Accessible Voting Center
To learn more about the accessible voting center in Yakima County and ballot return options, click here.