DISABLED COMMUNITY VOTING IN THE STATE OF FLORIDA: An Analysis of Options

and the challenges they face when voting, has moved to the forefront in 2002, through the legislation of the Help America Vote Act (HAVA) and 101.715 F.S. After careful analysis of the 2003-2004 "Report on Polling Place Accessibility " conducted by the Division of Elections, it became apparent that a new approach must be taken concerning voting accessibility for the disabled community. In order to upgrade current polling places to meet 101.715 F.S. and purchasing accessible voting devices for the disabled to meet HAVA requirements counties will be faced with major unplanned expenses. The recommendation is that the State of Florida implements a combination of two options: 1. Vote–by-mail as the primary voting method 2. Super Precincts for those who need special devices to cast a secret vote These options working together, will allow counties to need fewer accessible voting locations, possibly fewer people going to a particular polling location, and provide accessibility for the disabled community to cast their secret ballot. The combination of Super Precinct and vote-by