DES MOINES – Iowa Secretary of State Paul Pate announces the creation of a new, large print voter registration form to assist Iowans with low vision in registering to vote. The new form features 16-point font and will print on 14-inch, legal-size paper. The change was approved by the bipartisan Voter Registration Commission on Wednesday.

"I am committed to helping all eligible Iowans participate in the process," Secretary Pate said. "This form will make it easier for Iowans with low vision to register to vote and make their voices heard. We will work with anyone who is dedicated to helping Iowans vote."

The large print form is available to download on the voter registration page of Iowa Secretary of State's website, sos.iowa.gov. The form is a continuation of Secretary Pate's nationally recognized initiatives to improve accessibility for voters with disabilities. These initiatives also include a screen readable voter registration form for Iowans with visual impairment.

"The Iowa Developmental Disabilities Council is pleased to support the availability of the new large print voter registration form as another step toward making our election process more accessible to Iowans of all abilities," said Rik Shannon, public policy manager for the Iowa Developmental Disabilities Council.

"As the Americans with Disabilities Act nears 27 years, we are still working to improve access for all. Individuals with all types of disabilities should be able to participate fully in community life but sometimes experience barriers. Readily available alternate formats like large print is one important piece and helps break down these barriers to inclusion," said Leah Zapf Donald, executive director of Eastern Iowa Corridor Center for Independent Living.

For more information on voting resources available for Iowans with disabilities, visit sos.iowa.gov/disabilities.

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