From Mother Jones · Sophie Hurwitz · · 1m
California Mail Ballot System Excludes Disabled Voters
Federal court rules California’s mail ballot system excludes disabled voters.
In brief
Federal court rules California’s mail ballot system excludes disabled voters. A federal court ruled California’s mail ballot system excludes disabled voters, requiring them to return ballots via non-electronic means that many cannot complete independently. Originally reported by Mother Jones.
Federal court rules
A federal court struck down a California rule requiring voters to sign and return paper mail ballots.
Disabled voters face barriers
Voters with print disabilities cannot return ballots without assistance under current mail ballot rules.
Christopher Gray's challenge
Christopher Gray, a blind plaintiff, cannot vote without assistance due to printing and signing requirements.
Gray's 2022 experience
Gray paid an assistant to fill out his ballot in 2022 but lost ballot privacy and certainty.
Court ruling details
The court ruled the system excludes disabled voters and denies them meaningful access to mail ballots.
Next steps for California
California has until October 19 to propose new mail ballot rules, but changes won’t take effect until next election.
The bottom line
A federal court ruled California’s mail ballot system excludes disabled voters, requiring them to return ballots via non-electronic means that many cannot complete independently.
