The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada has reached an agreement with the Washoe County Board of Commissioners to address physical barriers at polling sites identified during a compliance review. This agreement concludes the investigation into Washoe County's adherence to Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act, which prohibits disability-based discrimination by state or local governments in their programs or services. The agreement will be effective through the 2026 and 2028 election cycles.
“We must continue to protect the rights of all Nevadans to participate in one of the most fundamental rights we possess, voting rights,” stated Sue Fahami, First Assistant United States Attorney, District of Nevada. “That is why we are proud to protect the rights of voters with disabilities to cast their ballot in person, privately, independently and without barriers. We are grateful for Washoe County’s commitment to helping accomplish this mutual goal.”
On June 11, 2024, during Nevada’s primary election, a survey was conducted at ten polling locations in Washoe County. The surveys revealed various architectural and equipment barriers that made these facilities inaccessible. These issues included obstructions at accessible voting stations, unreachable voting machine controls, missing accessibility signage at parking spaces, surface openings from public sidewalks to accessible entrances, gaps and level changes.
Under the terms of the agreement, Washoe County will train poll workers on ADA obligations and how to implement temporary measures if needed. Additionally, they will use technical assistance from an accessibility expert and evaluate each current and prospective polling place based on ADA architectural standards. Polling locations will be surveyed for accessibility throughout the duration of the agreement. When selecting future polling sites, new locations must meet ADA accessibility requirements. The United States Attorney’s Office will oversee the agreement and provide technical assistance.
This investigation is part of the Department of Justice’s ADA Voting Initiative aimed at safeguarding voting rights for individuals with disabilities nationwide. A key feature of this initiative is collaboration with jurisdictions to enhance polling place accessibility.
Assistant United States Attorney Ednin D. Martinez is handling this case.
If you believe you have been discriminated against based on disability, reports can be submitted at www.civilrights.justice.gov. For more information on ADA compliance call 1-800-514-0301 (TTY 1-833-610-1264) or visit www.ada.gov.