Statement from LWVWI: Absentee Ballot Return Assistance Confirmed for Voters with Disabilities

MADISON, WI–Today, the League of Women Voters of Wisconsin’s executive director, Debra Cronmiller, issued the following statement in response to a federal judge’s decision affirming absentee ballot return assistance for Wisconsin voters with disabilities. 

“In a win for voters, today federal Judge Peterson confirmed that Wisconsin voters with disabilities have the right to receive absentee ballot return assistance. 

“From requesting an absentee ballot to returning it to their clerk or polling place, voters with disabilities have ample protections throughout the entire voting process to receive the assistance they need to have their voice heard and their vote counted.

“After the Supreme Court of Wisconsin issued a decision this summer with very little guidance for absentee ballot return assistance, four Wisconsin voters with disabilities brought this issue forward.

“Thanks to the work of these voters, Law Forward, and other advocates, voters in need of assistance can rest assured that their family, friends and neighbors can assist them this fall. Learn more from our partner, Disability Rights Wisconsin. 

Things to know:

• Drop boxes are still prohibited in Wisconsin. 

• Assistance filling out your ballot for voters with disabilities has and continues to be guaranteed by state  and federal law. 

• Disability Rights Wisconsin hotline: 844-347-8683 or info [at] disablityvote.org

• Additional guidance from the Wisconsin Elections Commission 

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The League of Women Voters of Wisconsin is a nonpartisan political organization that advocates for informed and active participation in government. There are 20 local Leagues throughout Wisconsin. More information at lwvwi.org.