KANSAS CITY, Mo – Election season is here and ensuring accessible voting options is a top priority for many communities.
For voters like Mike Fredholm, who has been paralyzed for more than 30 years, access to the right to vote can be a major challenge.
“I broke my neck in a car accident. And so you quickly go from one kind of life to another kind of life.” Fredholm said. “Elections have become much more important to me after my injury than before my injury.”
Fredholm understands the importance of exercising his right to vote.
“Voting is important and it is very special what we have. I just feel deeply that you should always vote,” Fredholm said
But it is often not always easy to get to the polling stations with a disability.
“Fortunately because of the Americans with Disabilities Actwhich was passed in 1990 and came into effect in 1992, you should have access to equal access to voting places. And I’ve been pretty lucky.”
The Americans with Disabilities Act requires polling places to be accessible; one of those options is voting on the street.
According to the Electoral Assistance Commissioner17.7 million people with disabilities reported voting in the November 2020 election.
“All I know is, if our goal is for everyone to participate and vote, then let’s make it easy so everyone can participate and vote,” Fredholm said.
Options like curbside voting allow voters to cast their ballots from the comfort of their cars. It is a simple process: after arriving at the polling station.
‘I think we are on the right track. I know people who have had problems that I have heard stories about,” Fredholm said
This option is designed to make voting easier for people who face mobility issues, chronic illnesses or other barriers to physically entering polling places. Election officials said it’s important to make appointments early.
“We’ll be very busy at the polls, and the lines will probably be a bit long for curbside voting. So if you need it, feel free to take advantage of it.” said Shawn Kieffer, Kansas City elections director.
Here’s a list of other accessibility options here.
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