Establish Voting Policies to Avoid Future Complications

During the election seasons, the Center for Vulnerable Voters receives several calls from long term care providers requesting assistance. Often, deadlines have been missed, leading to challenges in determining how to offer optimal services and safeguards for the residents. 

Now is the time to establish relationships with your local election officials and implement policies. Election offices start preparing for an election several months in advance and so should care centers.  Planning ahead will avoid hassles and confusion for directors, vulnerable voters and the election officials. 

Recommended steps: 

• If you do not have the Texas Voting Assistance Legal Guide, we will be happy to send you a copy. Please make requests at the email provided.  

• It is recommended that residents who are mobile go to the polling places, which are mandated by federal and state law to be accessible. Verify the process of curb-side voting with your local election office. 

• For residents who wish to vote and are unable to leave the community to participate in the voting process, please contact your local election office today. Inquire about what services they can provide to your residents who are unable to go to the polls. 

• Locate your local election office at:  

A few key points to keep in mind: Election Administrators 

• Outside organizations should not be allowed in the care facility to assist residents with ballot applications, voting, or to deliver the resident’s ballot. 

• The request for assistance with all aspects of voting –voter registration, ballot application and marking the ballot – must be initiated by the resident voter.  

• When a qualified disabled resident makes a request for assistance, be sure two staff are present, document the interaction and include the names of staff present. Under Texas law, disabilities that are unrelated to a voter’s ability to read or mark their ballot do not qualify for assistance. 

• Make sure staff are aware of all laws and the penalties for violating these laws. 

Taking time now to partner with your local election office and implement policies will help eliminate unforeseen hassles, ensure residents who wish to vote are not prevented from doing so by unintentional obstacles and make certain safeguards are in place to protect residents from possible vote fraud. 

For complimentary resources, such as the Texas Voting Assistance Legal Guide or questions please email Laura.Williams@centerforvulnerablevoters.org or visit centerforvulnerablevoters.org.  

Disclaimer: This information is being provided for educational purposes and should not be construed as legal advice. You should always consult an attorney before taking action to ensure that recent changes in law have not altered your obligations.