Bill > H4760

This bill amends Massachusetts law to enhance accessibility for voters with disabilities by establishing a comprehensive inspection and compliance system for polling places and early voting sites. The legislation requires the State Secretary to conduct accessibility inspections of all polling places and early voting sites every four years, evaluating compliance with federal and state accessibility standards, including the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). When accessibility barriers are identified, local officials must take immediate corrective action within 48 hours, which may include temporary measures like providing accessible entrances, signage, or parking. Cities and towns must also submit a written compliance plan to the State Secretary outlining specific corrective actions and a timeline for achieving full accessibility. If local officials fail to take action or submit a plan, the State Secretary can issue an order and potentially impose penalties. The bill further requires the State Secretary to create detailed regulations defining minimum accessibility standards and to submit an annual report to the state legislature detailing inspection findings and compliance efforts. Additionally, the Attorney General is empowered to bring civil actions to enforce accessibility requirements, ensuring that voters with disabilities can fully participate in the electoral process.

Budget and Finance

Committee on Election Laws (Joint)

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H4760