Support HF2118 to Create an Absentee Ballot-Marking Program for Iowans with Disabilities

HF2118 creates an absentee ballot‑marking pilot program for Iowans with disabilities who cannot independently mark a ballot by hand. It authorizes the use of assistive technology, including electronic ballot‑marking devices that produce a paper record, to complete absentee ballots from home. The bill requires a mail‑based request process, implementation in enough counties to assess statewide feasibility, and annual reporting for transparency and accountability.

Dear [Lawmaker],

I urge your support for HF2118, which would establish an absentee ballot marking pilot program for Iowans with disabilities who cannot independently complete a ballot by hand. This is a practical and much needed step toward ensuring that every eligible voter can cast a ballot privately, independently, and securely, rights guaranteed to all Americans but not yet fully accessible to many Iowans.

Under current law, voters with disabilities who cannot physically mark an absentee ballot must rely on another person for assistance, compromising the privacy and independence fundamental to voting. Transportation barriers, limited satellite voting options, and daily life challenges also prevent many from accessing in person ballot marking devices.

HF2118 directly addresses this gap and supports equal access consistent with Iowa values and our democratic principles.

I respectfully ask for your support to ensure every Iowan, regardless of disability, can exercise their right to vote with confidence.

Sincerely,
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