How to Vote If You Are Hospitalized or Disabled
If you are physically unable to get to the polls or face additional problems due to a disability, there are still ways to make sure your vote counts.
According to Forbes journalist Tara Halle, you actually have the right to act, protected by the state, and there are a number of services created to help anyone who needs help in the process:
The right of people with disabilities, including those with mental illness, to vote is guaranteed by the Voting Rights Act 1965, the Americans with Disabilities Act 1990, the National Voter Registration Act 1993, and the Help America Vote Act 2002. The law strengthened and expanded these rights so that anyone with the right to vote can do so without barriers that violate their civil rights.
Recording a mental illness is very important because many people do not realize they have a right to help with ballots, even as they are struggling with less visible health problems, from panic attacks to psychosis. This protection also extends to “mental retardation, developmental disability or mental retardation”.
There is a guide recommended by the National Disability Rights Network and Autism Self-Defense Network, which is published by the Baselon Mental Health Law Center for anyone looking to learn more about the specific rights of people with mental health problems.
Who can help?
There are only two rules about who can help you vote: they cannot be your employer or your union leader. But you can ask a friend, colleague, or even a stranger. Election officials must be trained to help you, and if someone discourages you or tries to stop you from voting, they are breaking federal law. You can report an interference to the nationwide voter hotline by calling 866-OUR-VOTE (1-866-687-8683).
In the hospital
If you are in the hospital, you still have the right to vote as long as you are registered. Some hospitals have staff trained to provide assistance, but if they are not available, you can seek help from the local electoral commission. The employee can also call on your behalf, and if he refuses or does anything else to stop you, he will also be breaking the law. PatientVoting.com has more detailed information for your state , as well as emergency absentee voting options . It can be difficult to assert your voice in a health emergency, but if you have the courage, no one has the right to stop you.