Why It’s Important for Special Needs Families to Vote

Families of children and adults with special needs live with unique daily realities that are often shaped by laws, funding, and local decisions. Voting isn’t just a civic duty, t’s one of the most powerful ways families can help influence policies that directly affect their loved ones.

1. Laws and Services Depend on Representation

Programs that support individuals with disabilities,like IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act), Medicaid, and social services, are upheld and improved through legislation. When special needs families vote, they help elect leaders who prioritize funding for therapy services, special education, respite care, and accessibility programs.

2. Accessibility and Inclusion Begin at the Ballot Box

I believe voting itself can be an act of advocacy. When families with disabilities show up to vote, they highlight the importance of accessible polling locations, curbside voting, and assistive technology for voters who need support. Every voter who requests accommodations helps reinforce the need for inclusive voting systems.

3. Local Elections Matter Most

School board members, county judges, and city councils make decisions about IEP implementation, school accessibility, and community inclusion programs. Now more than ever WE must show up to vote. Local elections often have low turnout, but they impact special needs families the most. A few votes can change how local districts prioritize support for children with disabilities.

4. Teaching Advocacy by Example

When parents model civic engagement, children learn the importance of speaking up for themselves and others. Even if your child is too young or unable to vote, involving them in the process, talking about the ballot, visiting the polling place, or volunteering, teaches empowerment and self-advocacy.

5. Every Vote Strengthens the Community

Voting gives a voice to a community that often has to fight to be heard. When special needs families vote in large numbers, it shows that disability issues are not niche concerns they’re central to building fair, inclusive communities.

All voters with disabilities have the right to accessible voting. Here are a few ways to make your experience easier and stress-free:

Curbside Voting: If you can’t enter the polling place, you can request curbside voting. Each location has a marked area with instructions. An election officer will bring your ballot and offer assistance if needed.

In-Person Accommodations: Polling places in Texas must be accessible and offer accessible voting machines. ( Check with your on the rules) You can:

• Bring someone to assist you (not an employer or union rep).

• Request help from election workers.

• Ask for an interpreter.

• Move to the front of the line if you have mobility issues.

• Apply for a permanent photo ID exemption with disability documentation.

Emergency Ballots:If you become ill or disabled after the mail-in deadline, you can still request an emergency early voting ballot with a doctor’s note.

📞 Need help?

• Disability Rights Texas Voting Hotline: 1-888-796-VOTE (8683)

• Texas Secretary of State’s Election Division: 1-800-252-VOTE (8683)

If you need assistance or have questions, feel free to message me — I’ll help however I can.

My Final Thought: Your vote helps shape the future of education, healthcare, accessibility, and inclusion. Whether you vote early, by mail, or in person, make your voice count, not just for your family, but for every family navigating life with special needs.

“We’re here. We matter.”

Tracey L. McEntyre

Mom, Advocate, Educator, and Mentor