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 includes provisions for curbside voting, requiring the Elections Commission to provide uniform instructions for signage that informs voters with disabilities about their right to receive a ballot and assistance at the polling place entrance. The language in the bill also updates terminology, replacing "handicapped" with "individuals with disabilities" to reflect more inclusive language. The commission is tasked with publishing these instructions before the 2027 spring election, ensuring that voters with disabilities are adequately informed and supported during the voting process.

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