Californians with disabilities who are voting in the primary election on June 5 have an ally in ensuring that they have full and equal access to the process. With funding from the Help America Vote Act, Disability Rights California will operate a toll-free hotline for voters with disabilities who have difficulty accessing polling places, casting ballots or simply have questions about voting.
The primary purpose of the hotline is to fix problems on Election Day, so people with disabilities can vote independently and privately. Examples of barriers experienced by voters with disabilities include:
The hotline will remain open between 7 a.m. and 8 p.m. on Election Day, the hours which the polls are open, and can receive voice and TTY calls. The toll-free number for voice calls vary by location; 888-569-7955 (Northern California) or 888-733-7565 (Southern California). The statewide toll-free number for TTY calls is: 800-719-5798. Individuals who speak languages other than English should state their language, and an interpreter will be connected to the call. Callers who wish to use the California Relay Service, including Speech-to-Speech or Video Relay, can dial 711.