Smith County Elections Offers New Tool for Voters

TYLER — Smith County Elections is now offering an Interactive ExpressPass Sample Ballot to all registered voters in the county. In a news release, Elections Administrator Karen Nelson terms the system “convenient, simple and completely safe for voter use.” You can go to http://www.smith-county.com to find the ballot.

Nelson says the ballot provides:

· Convenience: The county’s sample ballot system can be accessed from the voter’s computer, tablet or smart phone. From the security of their own homes, voters can research their choices and take as much time as needed to mark their sample ballots. Voters then print their choices and take their “marked” sample ballot to the poll to use as a go-by for voting. Their printout will even provide them with our Early Voting locations and all of the Election Day Vote Centers.

· Continuity: The interactive sample ballot is identical to the ballot the voter will see in his or her polling location. Once you log on to the site, you’ll enter your name and date of birth. From there, the system will select the correct ballot for your residential address. Navigating through the ballot and marking choices is intuitive, says Nelson, adding that the process is as easy as completing an online form.

· Clarity: Nelson says she anticipates that voters will feel more empowered to make educated choices. Polling location information including maps and directions is provided.

· Accessibility: The sample ballots are provided in an accessible format for voters utilizing assistive technologies (screen readers and navigational software). They meet ADA requirements of Section 508 of the U.S. Rehabilitation Act.

· Privacy: The ExpressPass Sample Ballot look-up is anonymous. Although you may choose to mark your choices online, no records of a voter’s choices are recorded. This system passed the highest Texas standards and voters may rest assured that their anonymity and privacy is protected, according to Nelson.

Nelson says it’s essential to note that what are provided online are SAMPLE BALLOTS. Actual casting of a ballot is still done in person or through an absentee ballot by mail.