Senate Bill 518 aims to enhance polling place accessibility for individuals with disabilities in Wisconsin. The bill mandates the Elections Commission to create an election day accessibility checklist that election officials must use to evaluate polling places for any limitations that could hinder voting for individuals with disabilities. Election officials are required to notify the chief inspector or municipal clerk of any identified limitations immediately. Additionally, the checklist must be established before the 2027 spring election and updated periodically based on reports regarding voting impediments faced by the elderly and individuals with disabilities.

Furthermore, the bill modifies existing language to replace the term "handicapped" with "individuals with disabilities" in the context of reporting on voting impediments. It also requires the Elections Commission to provide uniform instructions for signage at polling places, informing voters with disabilities about their right to receive assistance at the entrance. These instructions must be published before the 2027 spring election, ensuring that individuals with disabilities are adequately informed about their voting rights and available assistance.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 5.25(4)(a), 5.25, 5.25(4)(d)