(1) At each polling location, at least one voting unit certified by the secretary of state shall provide access to individuals who are blind or visually impaired.

     (2) Compliance with this provision in regard to voting technology and systems purchased prior to July 27, 2003, shall be achieved at the time of procurement of an upgrade of technology compatible with nonvisual voting methods or replacement of existing voting equipment or systems.

     (3) Compliance with subsection (2) of this section is contingent on available funds to implement this provision.

     (4) For purposes of this section, the following definitions apply:

     (a) "Accessible" includes receiving, using, selecting, and manipulating voter data and controls.

     (b) "Nonvisual" includes synthesized speech, Braille, and other output methods.

     (c) "Blind and visually impaired" excludes persons who are both deaf and blind.

     (5) This section does not apply to voting by absentee ballot.

[2004 c 267 § 701; 2004 c 266 § 3. Prior: 2003 c 110 § 1. Formerly RCW 29.33.305.]

NOTES:

     Effective dates -- 2004 c 267: See note following RCW 29A.08.651.

     Effective date -- 2004 c 266: See note following RCW 29A.04.575.