Legal Definitions - ballot

Ballot refers to the process of casting a vote in an election. It can also refer to the physical paper, card, or machine that records a voter's choices. Additionally, it can refer to the total number of votes cast in an election or a list of candidates running for office.

• In a political election, voters are given a printed ballot where they must check the empty box next to the person they are voting for.
• Some jurisdictions provide electronic monitors, which allow people to vote by clicking the box of the person's name they wish to vote for.
• Towns may mail ballots to voters and give them the option to mail their ballots instead of obtaining them in person.

The Americans with Disabilities Act, the Voting Rights Act of 1965, the Voting Accessibility for the Elderly and Handicapped Act of 1984, and The Help America Vote Act of 2002 require jurisdictions to make accessible arrangements for people with disabilities, so they are able to cast their ballots. For example, a braille ballot can be provided to a voter who is blind.

These examples illustrate how ballots are used in different types of elections and how they can be made accessible to all voters, including those with disabilities.