CPR and the state of Connecticut have reached an agreement regarding the voting rights of people with disabilities who are institutionalized in the state. The Secretary of the State has issued an interpretative Opinion that sets forth the legal rights of voters with disabilities who are placed in institutions in the state. The Opinion makes clear that institutionalized voters have the right to equal access to the franchise, and to reasonable accommodations to avoid discrimination. These rights include: registering up to Election Day, voting in person and individually absentee in some circumstances, choosing their assistor, and the right to privacy and appropriate and accessible technology. These changes and clarifications of institutionalized voters’ rights under the ADA and the Voting Rights Act will make a meaningful impact on their ability to participate in the electoral process. This successful outcome results from almost two years of investigation and negotiation in collaboration with Disability Rights Connecticut (DRCT).
CPR co-presented with the Secretary of the State’s office to several hundred local election officials on the provisions of the Opinion on April 22. CPR will work with colleagues at DRCT and with other advocates to share information, educate voters and advocates, and monitor compliance through this election season to determine if further legal action is merited.